In a horrifying incident at a wedding party in north-east Thailand, a celebration turned into a nightmare as an ‘intoxicated’ groom unleashed a deadly rampage, leaving five dead, including himself. The tragedy unfolded at around 11:25 pm in the Wang Nam Khieo district.
Details of the Incident:
The wedding party was being held for Chaturong Suksuk, 29, and Kanchana Pachunthuek, 44. Chaturong, a former soldier and Paralympic athlete, displayed signs of displeasure during the celebration, catching the attention of guests and relatives. An argument ensued between the couple during the party, escalating the situation.
Fatal Shots Fired:
In a shocking turn of events, Chaturong left the party momentarily and returned with a pistol. He opened fire, fatally shooting his bride, Kanchana, her 62-year-old mother, Kingthong Klajorho, and her 38-year-old sister, Kornika Manator. Stray bullets struck two other guests, leading to the death of one. The injured were swiftly taken to the district hospital.
Perpetrator’s Tragic End:
Following the gruesome act, Chaturong turned the weapon on himself, ending his life instantly. Police discovered 11 bullets at the scene. Authorities reported that the groom was ‘quite intoxicated’ during the incident. Chaturong had legally obtained the firearm and ammunition the previous year.
Background of the Groom:
Chaturong, a former marine soldier who had lost his right leg in a tragic incident involving a train while on duty, had participated in the 11th Asean Para Games in Indonesia in 2022. He had earned a silver medal in swimming as a member of the Thai team of paralympic athletes.
Motive and Investigation:
While the police confirmed Chaturong’s state of intoxication, the motive behind the deadly attack is yet to be established. The groom’s legal acquisition of the gun raises questions about existing regulations. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the tragic incident.
Background of the Couple:
The couple, Chaturong and Kanchana, had been living together for three years before deciding to formalize their union through marriage. The shocking event has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about the impact of such incidents on public safety.
Aftermath and Policy Implications:
This tragic event occurred shortly after reports that Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul had signed an order to halt the issuance of gun licenses for a year to address and mitigate the rising concerns of gun violence in the country.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective measures to prevent such devastating acts in the future.
