Wild Elephant Kills Villager in Prachinburi Attack

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

A 79-year-old villager was killed by a wild elephant in Prachinburi during the early hours of 25 September 2025. The victim, identified as Mr Noi, was attacked outside his home in Wang Ai Pong village, Na Di District, after encountering an elephant known locally as “Chao App.” The incident left his son and neighbours shocked as they witnessed the fatal assault.

Police from Na Di Station, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Prasit Phakdee, received the report at 01.50 hrs from village headman Suriyah Utrapas. Rescue workers, medical staff from Na Di Hospital, local forest rangers and district officials attended the scene. The body of the victim was found in a roadside ditch near his home, bearing severe injuries consistent with being trampled by the elephant.

Witnesses said the attack began when the elephant suddenly charged at the victim, flinging him into the air before trampling him until he died. Neighbours described the distressing scene, noting the victim’s body was partly submerged in water, with broken legs and head injuries. The elephant was recognised as “Chao App,” part of a herd that has previously attacked forest officials in the same area.

Residents explained that “Chao App” often roams the area alongside two other elephants, one named “Lamood” and another identified as “Yong.” The animal is known for its distinctive trumpeting noise, similar to a dog’s bark and has been foraging in local communities for the past three to four years. Local elephant watch teams had earlier pushed the animal away from the village at around 20.00 hrs, but it returned after midnight when the area was quiet.

The victim’s son, Pichet, aged 53, said his father went to investigate barking dogs outside their home before the attack occurred. He urged authorities to implement stronger measures to protect villagers from roaming elephants. Other residents also called for urgent action, citing the increasing frequency of encounters with dangerous wildlife.

Authorities confirmed that the elephant had been pushed back into forest areas but warned of possible future returns. District officials and wildlife protection staff are expected to reassess monitoring and response strategies to prevent further incidents. The death has renewed local appeals for long-term solutions to ensure the safety of rural communities living near forest reserves.

Key Takeaways

• A 79-year-old man was killed by a wild elephant in Na Di District, Prachin Buri.

• The elephant, known as “Chao App,” has a history of aggressive encounters with humans.

• Authorities are under pressure to improve wildlife management and village safety.

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  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-09-26