Thailand Accident

Thailand Accident: Dozens killed in mass shooting at daycare center

Death toll rises to 37 in mass shooting at Thai daycare center

At least 37 people, including 22 children, were killed in a mass shooting at a daycare center in Thailand on Thursday, October 6, 2023. The gunman, a former police officer, also killed his wife and child before taking his own life.

What we know so far

The shooting took place at the Uthai Sawan daycare center in the northeastern province of Nong Bua Lamphu. The gunman, identified as Panya Khamrab, 34, entered the center around lunchtime and opened fire on the children and staff. He then fled the scene in a pickup truck.

Police pursued Khamrab and eventually cornered him at a house in the nearby village of Na Klang. After a brief standoff, Khamrab shot and killed his wife and child before turning the gun on himself.

The motive for the shooting is still unknown. Khamrab had been fired from the police force earlier this year for drug use.

Response to the shooting

The mass shooting has shocked Thailand and the world. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has ordered an investigation into the incident and has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Thai government has also declared a national day of mourning for the victims of the shooting.

International reaction

The international community has condemned the mass shooting and offered condolences to the victims' families.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called the shooting a "heinous act of violence" and said that he was "deeply saddened" by the loss of life.

The United States has also condemned the shooting and offered its support to the Thai government.