11-year-old boy drives pickup truck into procession of monks in Thailand, killing 8 and injuring 18

(CNA, Mukdahan, July 2) A major traffic accident occurred in Thailand's northeastern Mukdahan province today at noon when a pickup truck collided with a procession of monks, resulting in at least 8 monks dead and 18 injured, 13 of whom are in serious condition. Police stated that the vehicle involved was a pickup truck driven by an 11-year-old boy with special needs.

The Bangkok Post reported today that the major traffic accident occurred around 11:55 AM local time near Na Si Nuan village in Mukdahan province.

According to photos from the scene, the front of the pickup truck was deformed and twisted, monks were seen lying on the ground injured, and their belongings were scattered.

Police said that 34 monks were walking to Don Tan district for pilgrimage after having a meal when they were hit by the pickup truck.

The report indicated that the pickup truck was driven by a boy around 11 years old, who has special needs. He took his father's vehicle without permission and crashed into a group of monks on pilgrimage. The boy has been taken to the police station. (Editor: Tang Shengyang) 1150702

Stand with the facts, and your every contribution is a force to protect press freedom.

Download the CNA "First News" APP to get the latest news in real-time.

No part of this website's text, images, or videos may be reproduced, publicly broadcast, publicly transmitted, or used without authorization.