Thai school shooting survivor recalls warning mother not to call, fearing the ringing phone

A 14-year-old student named Khim recounted the harrowing experience of surviving a school shooting at Debsirin Nonthaburi School near Bangkok, where she hid in a classroom and urged her mother not to call, fearing the sound of her phone would alert the gunman.

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Mom, don't call me, because the bell will ring.

The shooting on the 7th resulted in nine fatalities and 23 injuries. The alleged perpetrator, also 14, died by suicide. This event is the most severe mass shooting in Thailand since 2022, prompting renewed discussions about gun control in the Southeast Asian nation.

Khim was in a classroom in Building 5 when she received messages from her sister, who was in the adjacent Building 4. Her mother also messaged, warning of an armed assailant on campus. Khim responded, "I told her I knew, and reminded her: 'Mom, don't call me, because the bell will ring.'" She then heard a deafening noise, as if it were right beside her. The class descended into panic when they realized the shooter was just outside their classrooms in the hallway.

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I told her I knew, and reminded her: 'Mom, don't call me, because the bell will ring.'

Khim's mother, Kwan, a 52-year-old nurse, was at work when she received a call from her elder daughter, Khim's sister. According to student group chats, Kwan believed the shooter was using a handgun. She instructed her daughter to count the gunshots, estimating a magazine capacity of 15 to 20 rounds. Police later reported the suspect fired at least 26 shots and carried 34 additional bullets.

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There are many achievements a man may record in public life, but among the greatest blessings bestowed upon any father is to see his values reflected in his children.

The situation intensified as the gunfire grew closer, reaching Building 4 where Khim's sister was located. Kwan contacted emergency services while maintaining contact with her daughter via speakerphone, relaying the shooter's position to authorities. The call with her daughter was abruptly cut off. After a period of prayer, Kwan received a call back from her daughter, who was unharmed. The family was reunited hours later at their home in suburban Bangkok. Khim expressed her deep affection for her sister, stating, "We always fought, but when I saw her this time, I've never loved her so much."

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In Seyi, I see a young man who is working hard to justify the confidence reposed in him and to earn his place through effort and commitment.