BUENG KAN, Thailand – Tragedy struck at a Kathin ceremony when an elephant in the procession became agitated, causing a fatal accident and injuries to attendees. The incident unfolded when the elephant, carrying two people, reacted aggressively and threw them to the ground before attacking further.
A 47-year-old woman, Preyawan, suffered severe injuries and passed away later at Pak Khat Hospital, while a 61-year-old man, Somporn, was seriously injured.
The procession took place on Nov 10 near Wat Sutthiwanaram in Pak Khat District, Bueng Kan Province. The traditional Kathin ceremony involved more than 10 elephants, monks, and over 1,000 attendees in a festive atmosphere.
However, as the temperature rose, one elephant became visibly irritated, shaking its head and moving erratically. In the chaos, villagers, including children, fled to safety. Authorities are investigating the incident and gathering evidence, while the family of the deceased woman prepares for her funeral.
