Nine monks killed, over 20 injured after van driven by child crashes into pilgrimage group in Thailand

A tragic accident in Thailand's northwestern Mukdahan province has claimed the lives of nine Buddhist monks and injured more than 20 others. The group was on a pilgrimage along the roadside when a van, reportedly driven by an 11-year-old boy, veered into them.

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The suspect is a child. The vehicle was taken for forensic evaluation to determine the cause of the accident.

Police stated the boy took his parents' van without permission, leading to the loss of control and the collision. "The suspect is a child. The vehicle was taken for forensic evaluation to determine the cause of the accident," said Pairoj Thaiphutsa, the provincial police commander. Authorities have contacted the boy's parents to discuss legal responsibility for his care.

One monk, identified as Phra Sompong, recounted the terrifying moments, saying he saw a child at the wheel before the van "suddenly rammed us at full speed." He and another monk managed to jump clear, but those at the front of the procession were struck. Five monks died at the scene, three more succumbed to their injuries in the hospital, and a ninth monk was later pronounced dead.

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I saw a child approach the steering wheel of a van. At that moment, I was chanting 'Buddho, Buddho'. Then, suddenly, the van rammed us at full speed.

Four monks remain in critical condition, with ten others suffering serious injuries. The incident highlights Thailand's persistent road safety issues, which are often linked to speeding, drunk driving, and disregard for traffic regulations. Buddhist monks hold a deeply respected position in Thai society, playing a central role in religious life and often participating in public ceremonies.

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Luckily, another monk and I managed to get out of the way in time. The nine monks who led the procession survived, but the others, who were hit by the vehicle, were thrown into the air.