Elderly Man Kills Monk in Dispute Over Pets at Temple

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

A 72-year-old monk was fatally attacked by a 70-year-old man in a shocking incident at Om Yai Temple in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province on 18 October. The victim, identified as Phra Chum Kamya, known as Luang Ta Chum, was found lying in a pool of blood at the temple with severe head injuries from a bladed weapon. Emergency services rushed him to Sam Phran Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Pol Lt Col Weeralak Khwornchom, deputy investigating officer at Pho Kaeo Police Station, received the report around 18:30 and arrived at the scene with senior officers, investigators, and rescue personnel. Locals reported seeing a commotion and authorities quickly began searching for the suspect. The alleged attacker, Mr. Mit, aged 70, fled briefly but was apprehended at his home approximately 500 metres from the temple.

Eyewitnesses described a heated argument preceding the attack. According to a local resident, the conflict may have involved the monk’s cats and a dog owned by Mr. Mit. Both parties exchanged shouted insults before Mr. Mit drew a knife and struck the monk multiple times on the head, causing catastrophic injuries.

Police believe prior grievances or disturbances caused by the pets may have contributed to the violent incident. The monk was known to care for multiple cats within his residence and it is suggested that one of Mr. Mit’s dogs may have bitten a cat, escalating tensions. The investigation is ongoing to determine any additional motives or circumstances surrounding the attack.

Key Takeaways

• A 72-year-old monk was killed at Om Yai Temple in a violent dispute with a 70-year-old local man.

• The attack was reportedly linked to tensions over the pets kept by both parties.

• The suspect was quickly apprehended near the temple and is in police custody for investigation.

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  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-10-20