34 killed, including 22 children, in Thailand daycare shooting
Bangkok: In a horrifying incident that has shocked Thailand, at least 34 people, including 22 children, were killed in a mass shooting at a daycare and school facility on Wednesday, officials confirmed.
The attack took place at Patong Prathan Kiriwat School in Hat Yai district, close to the Malaysia border. According to preliminary reports, the violence erupted shortly after classes had ended for the day.
Police said an 18-year-old gunman stormed the campus in the afternoon and opened fire indiscriminately using a machine gun. Witnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as terrified children and teachers ran for safety after hearing gunshots echo across the school premises.
Investigators said the attacker initially attempted to take hostages after injuring the school principal. However, as people began fleeing in different directions, he allegedly started firing randomly at anyone in sight. Eyewitnesses claimed the gunman walked across the playground shooting continuously, leaving a trail of devastation.
By the time the attack ended, 34 people had lost their lives, including 22 young children and 12 adults. Several others were injured, some of them critically, and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Local police and special operation units from Hat Yai and Thung Lung districts quickly reached the spot after receiving information about the shooting. Security forces cordoned off the entire area and launched an emergency rescue operation.
After an intense operation, officers managed to overpower the suspect and take him into custody alive. Authorities confirmed that all hostages were rescued safely.
Initial investigations have revealed disturbing details about the gunman’s behaviour before the attack. Police sources said the youth had been acting erratically since morning and had allegedly threatened his mother at their residence before heading to the school.
Shocking visuals from the scene showed children and school staff running out of the campus and taking shelter on nearby roads as security forces tried to bring the situation under control.
Mass shootings, though rare compared to some other countries, have occurred in Thailand in the past. The deadliest incident in recent memory took place in 2022 when a former police officer attacked a nursery, killing 36 people, including 22 children.
The latest tragedy has once again raised serious concerns about gun control and mental health issues in the country. Thai Prime Minister and senior government officials expressed deep grief over the incident and promised strict action against those responsible.
Counselling and support services have been arranged for survivors and families of the victims as the nation mourns one of its darkest days.
Authorities said a detailed investigation is underway to determine the exact motive behind the brutal attack.
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