Thailand is in mourning after a 14-year-old student killed seven people, including his grandparents and five school staff, in one of the country’s deadliest school shootings in recent history. The student then died by suicide. Police reported that the attack started Friday morning in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok.
The teenager allegedly shot his grandparents at their home before going to Debsirin Nonthaburi School with a handgun registered to his grandfather. At the school, the student opened fire, causing panic. Students and teachers ran for safety or escaped through emergency exits. Five school staff members were killed, and over 20 others were injured, some critically.
The teenager was later found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and died on the way to the hospital. Investigators also found many unused bullets, suggesting the attack could have been worse. Witnesses recalled fear and chaos as gunshots rang out. Emergency services evacuated the injured while police secured the area.
Authorities stated that initial findings point to academic stress and mental health issues as possible factors for the student. However, they stressed that the exact motive is still being investigated. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul offered condolences to the victims’ families and announced a review of gun regulations to prevent weapons from getting into the wrong hands. The government is also offering counselling and support to those affected.
This tragedy has again raised concerns about gun violence in Thailand, which has a high rate of civilian gun ownership in Asia, despite previous attempts to strengthen gun laws. This is the second school shooting reported this year, increasing demands for better school safety and mental health services for young people.
