Park Ranger Killed in Wild Elephant Attack in Phetchabun

Pictures courtesy of NBT

A park ranger was killed after being attacked by a wild elephant during a patrol operation in Nam Nao district, Phetchabun province, causing immediate concern for ranger safety and prompting heightened wildlife monitoring. The incident occurred at 11.15am on 19 January, when a four-member patrol team from National Park Protection Unit No. 10 (Phu Hin Lek Fai) was operating in tambon Nam Nao. One officer suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

According to the report, the patrol team was carrying out routine duties when a lone wild elephant suddenly charged at the officers without warning. As the team attempted to run for cover, Mr Sirinthorn Heapa, aged 47, a government employee attached to the unit, lost his footing and fell to the ground. The elephant then moved directly towards him and attacked.

Despite efforts by the unit chief and other patrol officers to drive the elephant away, Mr Sirinthorn sustained critical injuries. He succumbed to his injuries at approximately 11.30am at the scene. The attack took place within a forested area of Nam Nao district, an area known for the presence of wild elephants.

Following the incident, medical staff from Nam Nao Hospital, police officers and rescue personnel from the Kok Sai Nam Nao Rescue Unit were dispatched immediately to the location. Authorities carried out an initial examination of the scene while coordinating with wildlife teams. A rapid response unit was deployed to push the elephant out of the conservation area and to closely monitor its movements.

Officials also issued warnings to residents and people working near forest areas, urging increased caution when entering wildlife zones. The incident has underlined the ongoing risks faced by park rangers operating in areas with large wild animals, particularly elephants known for unpredictable behaviour.

The body of Mr Sirinthorn was taken for further procedures in accordance with official protocols. NBT reported that authorities will continue to track the elephant involved and assess safety measures for patrol teams operating in the area.

Key Takeaways

• A 47-year-old park ranger was killed by a wild elephant during a patrol in Nam Nao district on 19 January.

• The attack occurred suddenly and colleagues were unable to prevent fatal injuries despite driving the elephant away.

• Authorities have increased monitoring of the elephant and warned the public to exercise caution in forest areas.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from NBT 2026-01-21