A shooting spree involving a 14-year-old boy has claimed the lives of eight people in Nonthaburi Province, near Bangkok, after the teenager allegedly killed his grandparents before carrying out an attack at Debsirin Nonthaburi School.
Thai authorities said the suspect later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound while being transported to a hospital. The incident is among the deadliest school-related attacks recorded in Thailand in recent years.
Police said preliminary findings indicate that the violence began at the teenager’s family home, where his grandparents were fatally shot. Investigators believe he then travelled to the nearby school carrying a handgun believed to belong to his grandfather.
Once on the campus, he allegedly opened fire, leaving several members of staff dead and others injured before the attack came to an end.
Emergency services quickly evacuated victims, while security personnel sealed off the area.
Authorities said several of those wounded were taken to medical facilities for urgent treatment, with some reported to be in serious condition.
Officers also recovered ammunition from the scene as part of the ongoing investigation. Forensic teams have since begun examining evidence to establish the sequence of events and determine whether the suspect acted alone.
Investigators are looking into the teenager’s personal circumstances, including reports of emotional and academic difficulties, as they work to establish what may have contributed to the attack. Officials cautioned that no final conclusion has been reached regarding a motive and said the investigation remains active.
Reacting to the tragedy, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul extended condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones and expressed sympathy for the injured.
He said the government would examine additional measures to strengthen public safety and reduce the likelihood of similar incidents.
“The government will take urgent steps to strengthen gun control and improve public safety.”
The shooting has reignited debate over firearm regulation in Thailand, where concerns have persisted despite previous efforts to tighten gun control following earlier mass shootings.
Security experts and public policy analysts say the latest attack has intensified calls for stricter safeguards on firearm ownership and storage, particularly in households where children may have access to weapons.
Classes at the affected school have been suspended while police continue their investigation. Mental health professionals and crisis support teams have also been deployed to assist students, teachers and families coping with the aftermath.
Authorities said the findings of the investigation could inform future security measures at schools and broader efforts to improve firearm safety across the country.
