DistantNews
Support us
🇹🇼 Taiwan /Disasters & Emergencies

11-year-old autistic boy steals car, crashes into monks, killing 10

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • An 11-year-old autistic boy in Thailand stole a pickup truck and crashed into a group of monks, killing at least 10.
  • The boy, who has severe developmental delays, took the vehicle while his grandmother was distracted.
  • Authorities are investigating and considering legal responsibility for guardians, though the boy faces no criminal charges due to his age.

A tragedy unfolded in Thailand's Mukdahan province when an 11-year-old boy with autism stole a pickup truck and plowed into a procession of 35 monks and 5 followers. The devastating crash resulted in at least 10 deaths, leaving families grief-stricken. The boy, who has significant developmental challenges, including an inability to speak and difficulty with self-care, reportedly took the vehicle while his grandmother was preparing to go to the market. School officials described him as highly active and prone to wandering off, suggesting he may have learned to drive by watching videos. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul offered condolences and government assistance to the victims' families. Police are investigating the circumstances, including whether anyone allowed or taught the child to drive. While the boy will not face criminal charges due to being under 12, authorities are examining the potential legal responsibility of his parents or guardians. The incident has sparked strong public debate in Thailand regarding the supervision of children with special needs.

They had said 'we will be back in a long time,' but it turned out to be their last farewell.

— Victim's family memberDescribing the tragic final words of the monks before the fatal accident.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog