Man, 21, Critically Injured After Self-Immolation in Bangkok

Fire

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September 30, 2025Sep 30

Picture courtesy of Amarin

A 21-year-old man is in critical condition after dousing himself with fuel and setting himself on fire near a bus stop on Phahonyothin Road, Bangkok, on 30 September 2025. The incident occurred at around 10:35 in front of the Department of Land Development, close to Kasetsart University. CCTV footage showed two female students and a local man fleeing in shock before flames engulfed the victim, who then ran into the road and collided with a passing motorcycle.

Good Samaritans rushed to assist, including the driver of a white car who used a blanket to try to smother the flames. A security guard from across the street quickly brought a fire extinguisher and sprayed the victim, putting out the fire. Rescue workers transported the man to hospital with severe burns covering most of his body.

At the scene, officials found a yellow six-litre fuel container and a yellow lighter near the bus stop. Chemical residue from fire extinguishers was also visible on the pavement. Witnesses reported that the man had been sitting quietly behind the bus stop before pouring fuel over himself and igniting it.

A food delivery rider who saw the event said the victim ran towards the students while on fire, forcing them to flee. He described the scene as terrifying and “like a movie,” adding that the man cried out in pain as he stumbled into the road. The rider later helped escort the frightened students to their university.

Mr Wi, 47, the security guard who intervened, said the man was still alive after the flames were extinguished, though severely burned and unable to speak. Most of his clothing was destroyed in the fire. Emergency responders confirmed the victim remained unconscious but had a pulse when taken to hospital.

Police later learned that the man had spoken to someone, belived to be his girlfriend, on the phone shortly before the incident and appeared to be under severe emotional distress. Investigators believe the act was linked to a dispute with his girlfriend.

Pol Col Marut Sudnongbua, superintendent of Phahonyothin police station, confirmed the victim as a 21-year-old male. He said the man suffered extensive burns and remains in a critical condition. Police are gathering further details from family and close contacts.