Multiple teachers have died and more than 30 people, including students, have been injured after a 14-year-old student opened fire at a school in Thailand, according to local authorities cited by the BBC. The shooting, which involved a 9-millimeter pistol belonging to the shooter’s grandfather—a former teacher—took place at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok, following the prior killings of the suspect’s grandmother and grandfather at their home.
School Shooting in Nonthaburi Province Leaves Teachers Dead and Students Injured
According to local authorities cited by the BBC, five teachers have died in the attack at Debsirin Nonthaburi School. The 14-year-old gunman used a 9-millimeter pistol belonging to his grandfather, who worked previously as a teacher, local authorities said. Prior to the school attack, the boy killed his grandmother and grandfather, whose bodies were found in their home on the outskirts of Bangkok. The suspect ultimately died by suicide at the scene.
More than 30 people sustained injuries in the incident, including multiple students. Footage emerged showing students taking cover under desks as gunshots echoed through the facility. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the tragedy publicly, stating, according to the BBC, “This is really bad, not supposed to happen. Not only sorry for the victims, but also sorry that this happened. How is this possible to happen in our country. That’s why the government does not allow citizens to possess firearms.”
Gun Laws and Prior Incidents in Thailand
While Thailand maintains strict gun laws where illegal firearm possession can carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years, the country still records one of the highest rates of civilian gun ownership in Southeast Asia, the BBC reports. In February, an 18-year-old gunman shot a school director and a student at a school in Southern Thailand, resulting in the director’s death in the hospital the following day. Additionally, five people died in a market shooting in Bangkok last year.
Did you know? Despite illegal possession carrying sentences of up to 10 years, civilian firearm ownership rates in Thailand remain among the highest in Southeast Asia, according to BBC reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the school shooting take place?
The shooting occurred at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in Nonthaburi province, located north of Bangkok, according to local authorities and the BBC.
How many casualties were reported?
Local authorities cited by the BBC confirmed that five teachers died, alongside the suspect who died by suicide. More than 30 individuals, including students, sustained injuries.
What weapon was used in the attack?
The 14-year-old suspect used a 9-millimeter pistol that belonged to his grandfather, a former teacher, according to official information reported by the BBC.
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