Pilgrimage Van Crash in Udon Thani Kills One, Injures Eight

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

A pilgrimage tour ended in tragedy when a private passenger van suffered a tyre blowout and crashed into a tree in Udon Thani province, leaving one person dead and eight others injured. The accident occurred at about 1.50pm on 2 January 2026 on the Nong Han–Phibun Rak road in Phibun Rak district. Emergency responders confirmed that several victims were trapped inside the vehicle and three sustained serious injuries.

The incident was reported to emergency services at around 1.50pm, prompting rescue teams from Phibun Rak Hospital and local volunteer units to rush to the scene. The van was found severely damaged after slamming into a roadside tree between Ban Nai M and Ban Don Kloi. Hydraulic rescue cutting and spreading equipment was used to free passengers trapped in the wreckage before all injured were taken to hospital.

Background information indicates that the passengers were part of a pilgrimage group travelling to worship at Wat Pa Dong Nong Tan. The group had departed from Ban Khao Wua in Phang Ngu subdistrict, Nong Han district, Udon Thani province. According to initial findings, the van’s tyre suddenly burst while in motion, causing the driver to lose control.

The injured passengers were identified as residents originally from Surin province. They were reported to have fled unrest along the border and were temporarily staying with relatives in Udon Thani before organising the religious trip. During rescue operations, officials confirmed that nine people were inside the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Three of the injured were initially listed in critical condition. One of them later died from their injuries at hospital and was identified as Mr Thieng Mokhom. The remaining victims continue to receive medical treatment, with doctors closely monitoring those seriously hurt.

Authorities noted that the Nong Han–Phibun Rak road is frequently used by both local residents and travellers, especially during the New Year holiday period. Police officers secured the crash site and diverted traffic while rescue operations were under way. The damaged van was later removed for inspection.

Khoasod reported that police have launched a formal investigation to determine the exact cause of the tyre blowout and the circumstances leading to the crash. This will include questioning the driver, examining the vehicle and reviewing road conditions.

Key Takeaways

• A van carrying a pilgrimage group crashed after a tyre blowout in Udon Thani on 2 January 2026, killing one person and injuring eight.

• Three passengers were trapped in the wreckage and three suffered serious injuries, with one later dying in hospital.

• Police are investigating the cause of the tyre failure and the crash.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2026-01-03