11-year-old driving stolen truck kills 9 monks in Thailand crash

A tragic incident in Thailand's northeastern Mukdahan province resulted in the deaths of nine Buddhist monks and injuries to over 20 others. The monks were on a pilgrimage when an 11-year-old boy, driving a stolen pickup truck, crashed into their group.

Officials reported that the group consisted of 35 monks and five followers traveling between temples. Five monks died at the crash site, while an additional four passed away later at a hospital due to their injuries. Another 22 monks sustained injuries, with four in critical condition, along with one follower.

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Five victims died at the scene, while four more died at a hospital after succumbing to injuries.

The boy, described by local authorities as having special needs, allegedly took the truck from his family home and drove approximately 10 kilometers before the collision. Police have not yet filed charges and are investigating the events leading up to the crash. The boy was reportedly in shock and unable to provide a statement immediately but is now in custody and will be questioned with child protective services present.

Security camera footage showed the monks walking in single file on the roadside shortly before the truck struck them. The group had begun their 260-kilometer walk to Ubon Ratchathani province about 30 minutes prior to the accident. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing.

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The boy, who local authorities say has special needs, stole the truck from his family home and drove it about 10 km before hitting the group of monks.