Prime Minister describes attack as “well prepared” as Thailand faces renewed gun violence concerns
At least seven people have been killed and more than 30 others injured after a 14-year-old boy opened fire in Thailand, according to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
The attack occurred in Nonthaburi, on the outskirts of the capital, Bangkok. The victims included the teenager’s grandparents and several schoolteachers.
Nine of those injured are reportedly in serious condition, while emergency services continue to respond to the aftermath of the attack.
Authorities said the suspected shooter is also dead. Prime Minister Anutin described the incident as “well prepared”, saying it appeared to have involved clear steps and specific goals.
Students flee school
Students at Debsirin School were among those caught up in the incident.
One student who managed to escape told the BBC that she witnessed a teacher being shot. Another student, still wearing her school uniform, said she and several friends climbed over the school fence as they tried to get away from the danger.
The accounts have highlighted the fear and confusion experienced by students during the attack.
Authorities have urged members of the public to avoid the area around Debsirin School while emergency responders and investigators work at the scene.
Images from the area showed emergency personnel responding to the incident.
Second school shooting this year
The shooting is the second reported school shooting in Thailand this year, raising fresh concerns about gun violence in the country.
Thailand has restrictions on firearm ownership, but guns remain relatively accessible compared with many other countries in the region. The continued occurrence of shootings has prompted concerns about how firearms are obtained and how authorities can prevent further attacks.
The latest incident is expected to renew debate over gun control and public safety, particularly around schools and other places where large numbers of people gather.
Investigation under way
Authorities are continuing to investigate what led to the attack and whether anyone else was involved.
Prime Minister Anutin’s description of the incident as carefully prepared has added to questions surrounding the teenager’s motives and how the attack was organised.
Police and other emergency agencies remain at the scene as investigators work to establish a full account of what happened.
The government is also facing pressure to support the victims, their families and the affected school community.
Thailand mourns victims
The deaths have sent shockwaves through the local community, with families and school staff facing the aftermath of another major act of violence.
The injured victims are receiving medical treatment, while authorities continue to assess the situation.
As Thailand mourns those who lost their lives, the attack has renewed calls for stronger measures to address gun violence and improve safety in schools.
The incident also comes at a time when concerns over firearm access and school security remain prominent in Thailand, making the latest shooting a significant national safety issue.
