A devastating incident occurred in northeast Thailand when an 11-year-old boy, driving his parents’ pickup truck, struck a group of Buddhist monks, resulting in the deaths of nine and injuries to several others.
The tragic event unfolded as a procession of 35 monks and five lay supporters made their way along a road during a pilgrimage.
Eyewitness footage shared online reveals saffron robes and personal belongings scattered across the roadside, alongside a severely damaged vehicle.
Authorities reported that five monks died at the scene, while four succumbed to their injuries later in the hospital.
According to police, the boy took the vehicle without consent and lost control before crashing into the group.
Police Major General Pairoj Thaiphutsa stated that they are currently assessing the legal implications for the child involved.
”The suspect is a minor. The vehicle has been seized for forensic analysis to ascertain the cause of the accident,” he explained.
Later, Thaiphutsa informed BBC Thai that the boy is under care from officials, including his guardians and medical personnel.
Initial reports suggest that the child may have special needs, though further details remain undisclosed.
Mukdahan Hospital has issued an urgent appeal for blood donations to assist those injured in the crash.
Three monks are reported to be in critical condition, with at least five others sustaining serious injuries. Additional individuals are receiving treatment for less severe wounds, according to health authorities.
Phra Sompong, a monk present during the incident, recounted his experience, stating he was chanting the meditation mantra “Buddho, Buddho” when the truck approached.
”I noticed a boy driving toward us… then suddenly the truck collided with us at full speed,” he recalled in a video shared by local rescue teams.
”Fortunately, another monk and I managed to evade it in time.”
The first nine monks in line were unharmed, but others were thrown into the air upon impact.
In Thailand, Buddhist monks hold a position of great respect, tasked with safeguarding and disseminating the teachings of Buddha.
Public processions are commonplace, with community members often offering alms as a gesture of goodwill.
Police investigations revealed that no one was home at the time of the accident except for the child, who had not attended school due to illness.
Once the boy’s guardians realized the vehicle was missing, they promptly contacted authorities.
Mukdahan provincial governor Worayan Bunnarat emphasized that this incident should serve as a cautionary tale regarding road safety throughout Thailand.
”We have been stringent about road safety measures in recent years.
This case should serve as a lesson not only for our province but for everyone regarding accident prevention,” he remarked.
”It is crucial for all involved, especially parents, to take responsibility, as no one wishes for such tragedies to occur.”
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong