SONGKHLA, Thailand – A defense volunteer shot and killed two people and wounded three others at a restaurant in Thailand’s southern city of Hatyai in Songkhla province Sunday night (Dec 23).
The incident occurred when Akkarapon Phamchamnong, 50 opened fire at customers and staff at Paowana rice porridge restaurant around 10 p.m. following a dispute.
Security camera footage showed the shooter, dressed in black, arguing with the restaurant’s owner and staff before stepping outside, drawing a gun, and firing multiple shots into the restaurant.
Among those killed were a couple celebrating their child’s birthday – Sitthipong, 48, and Orachorn, 47. Their 6-year-old daughter suffered head injuries while fleeing, while their 12-year-old son managed to escape unharmed.
The restaurant owner, Phawana, 46, was shot in the head and another customer, Suriya, sustained injuries to his right arm. Both are being treated at a local hospital.
According to restaurant staff, the suspect was intoxicated when he entered the restaurant, bringing his own alcohol. The shooting occurred after a dispute over clearing the table when he went out to smoke and talk with a friend. The restaurant refused to serve him further due to his carrying a weapon.
Police later apprehended the suspect at his home. He has confessed to all charges, claiming he was provoked by insults from the restaurant owner and the deceased couple.
The suspect faces multiple charges including intentional murder, attempted murder, and firearms violations. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the immediate dismissal of the volunteer from his position.
“Simply dismissing him from the position is not enough. As a government official, he should be held to a higher standard and face maximum penalties,” Anutin said, adding that defense volunteers are only permitted to carry weapons while on duty.
Local authorities have visited the victims’ families to offer condolences and assistance. The hospital’s psychiatric team is providing support to the deceased couple’s children. (TNA)
