Thailand childcare centre shooting in Nong Bua Lam Phu

Tragedy has struck in Thailand with a reported shooting incident in a Nong Bua Lam Phu childcare centre on Thursday, 6th October 2022.

An ex-cop who’s suspected to be involved has been found dead in his home along with his wife and child. The toll so far includes over 36 people dead – including 23 children, and many others hospitalised.

As the nation mourns the loss of these young lives, here’s what we know so far about the case.

More news in Thailand:

Childcare centre shooting incident allegedly involved ex-cop

A childcare centre located in Nong Bua Lum Phu province in the Esaan region was allegedly visited by a former police officer earlier today. The man fled the scene after killing 23 children and 2 caretakers, according to Khaosod.

Image credit: SuperPik Kanwilai

A survivor described the tragic scene as the ex-cop kicked down the door after the caretakers had locked them in. He then allegedly entered the centre, armed, and attacked the sleeping children. One of the caretakers who was killed was due to give birth next month, reports Khaosod.

A Facebook user in the area livestreamed the aftermath at the school, where cries of parents can be heard in the video. He also claims the perpetrator continued his spree by allegedly shooting and ramming people in his car, after fleeing the scene.

Thairath reported at 3PM that the man was found to have committed suicide in his home after killing his wife and young son. 

Troubled history of drug and alcohol abuse

As the case is still undergoing investigation, some Thai news media outlets have surfaced reports about the alleged perpetrator’s history.

Matichon reports that the former cop had a troubled past that led to his dismissal from the police force. His co-workers apparently noted his rapid weight loss and irritability after his ex-girlfriend did not join him in Esaan, following his work transfer from Bangkok.

Other behavior described by his ex-colleagues include:

  • getting drunk after hours at the police residence with his friends
  • discharging his weapon while under the influence
  • threatening citizens by motioning to his gun while on duty

In one case, he allegedly shot and killed a dog belonging to a local. The police stepped in and charges were dropped, reports Matichon.

In January 2022, an investigation into the ex-cop’s drug use led to his admission that he had been using “Yaba” – a type of methamphetamine drug – since high school.

He apparently confessed that he used to possess over 100 tablets but somehow evaded arrest. This eventually led to his firing from the police force, according to Matichon.

Public blood donation drive closed after rousing response

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has extended his condolences to the affected families in a statement. He also ordered the police chief to travel to Nong Bua Lum Phu to expedite all legal processes. 

As for local law enforcement, the police chief has ordered officers in Nong Bua Lum Phu and surrounding provinces to donate blood to the victims who are currently hospitalised and in need of blood transfusions.

But at 5PM, Nong Bua Lum Phu hospital issued a statement to share that they’ve closed the blood donation drive as they had received enough. They went on to thank those who extended a helping hand in this crucial time.

Image credit: Khaosod

Condolences to those affected

This tragedy shows that gun violence continues to be an issue in Thailand. Our condolences go out to the families that were affected by this senseless violence.

It is our hope that a lesson can be learned from this tragedy to prevent further gun violence in Thailand.

Cover images adapted from (Clockwise from Top Left): Thairath, Reuters

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