Eight Thai monks were killed and several others injured after an 11-year-old boy drove his family's pick-up truck into a Buddhist procession on Thursday in Mukdahan, northeastern Thailand. The tragic accident occurred shortly after the monks began a pilgrimage, marking a somber event in the region.
Details of the Incident
The procession, consisting of about 30 monks, was walking along a roadside when the child, who had stolen the vehicle from his parents, lost control and crashed into them. Local police reported that the boy had taken the truck without permission. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene as the monks were chanting when the truck approached.
“I saw a boy driving a pick-up truck approaching. At that moment I was chanting ‘Buddho, Buddho’ [a meditation mantra],” said Phra Sompong, a monk who survived the crash. “Then suddenly the truck hit at full speed and crashed [into] us,” he added. Five monks died at the scene, while three more succumbed to their injuries later in the hospital.
Casualties and Injuries Reported
Health officials indicated that between 10 to 20 additional individuals suffered various degrees of injuries. Four monks remain in critical condition at Mukdahan Hospital, while others are being treated for less severe injuries.
- 5 monks died at the scene
- 3 monks died in the hospital
- 10-20 individuals injured
- 4 monks in critical condition
Police Investigation and Child Custody
Authorities are investigating the incident, with Major General Pairoj Thaiphutsa of the Mukdahan Provincial Police stating that the vehicle would undergo forensic examination. The child is currently in custody, with plans to question him once state child protection officers arrive. Police have also contacted the boy’s parents to address responsibility for the child's care.
Buddhist monks are highly revered in Thailand, often participating in public processions that are significant to the community's spiritual practices. This incident has raised concerns regarding child supervision and road safety in the area.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Al Jazeera. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
