By Damian Arugo Jr. | National News
At least six people have been confirmed dead after a 14-year-old student allegedly carried out a shooting at a prestigious secondary school in Nonthaburi, on the outskirts of Thailand’s capital, Bangkok.
Thai authorities said the teenager is believed to have first shot and killed his grandparents at their home before heading to Debsirin School, where he allegedly opened fire on teachers. The suspect was later found dead.
Police said the 9mm handgun used in the attack belonged to the suspect’s grandfather, who was a teacher. Investigators are still working to establish the motive behind the incident.
Officials confirmed that four teachers were killed at the school, while the teenager’s grandparents also lost their lives in the earlier attack. At least 15 other people sustained injuries, with two reported to be in critical condition.
Emergency responders rushed to the school after gunshots were reported, evacuating students and staff as heavily armed security personnel secured the premises. Authorities urged members of the public to stay away from the area while rescue and investigation efforts continued.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as students fled classrooms. One student said she saw the gunman move from room to room before shooting a teacher standing outside her classroom. Another student initially mistook the sound of gunfire for firecrackers before realizing the school was under attack.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed condolences to the families of the victims, describing the tragedy as one that should never have occurred. He stressed the government’s commitment to restricting firearm possession.
The attack has also renewed calls for tighter gun control in Thailand. Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut urged authorities to review the country’s firearms regulations, saying schools must remain safe places for learning.
The shooting is the latest in a series of deadly gun-related incidents in Thailand and comes months after another school shooting in the country’s south raised concerns about access to firearms.
Police have launched a full investigation into the incident.
