Death toll hits 10 in Thai monk procession crash

A tragic accident in Thailand's Mukdahan province has claimed the lives of 10 monks and injured 10 others after an 11-year-old boy crashed a pickup truck into their procession on July 2. The group of 35 monks and five lay followers were walking along a roadside during a pilgrimage when the vehicle plowed into them.

Five monks died at the scene, and another five succumbed to their injuries later in the hospital. Two individuals remain in critical condition, while eight others are receiving treatment for their injuries. Officials reported that the young driver had taken his parents' vehicle without permission.

According to Mukdahan City Police Chief Prayut Ruanthongkam, the 11-year-old was unable to provide a statement and has been referred to child welfare authorities for assessment. In Thailand, individuals under the age of 12 are not held criminally liable. Police are continuing their investigation by gathering testimony from surviving monks.

Buddhist monks hold a revered status in Thailand, responsible for upholding and transmitting Buddhist teachings. Processions are common, and they are often seen receiving alms from the public. A representative from Wat Roi Phra Phutthabat Phu Manorom confirmed that the temple is providing care for the surviving and recovering monks and followers involved in the incident.

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the boy was unable to give a statement to police.