Thai teen kills grandparents, then opens fire at school, killing at least 7

A 14-year-old student plunged Thailand into tragedy on Thursday, killing at least seven people in a shooting rampage that began at his home and ended at his school. The incident, which left over 20 others injured, marks the nation's deadliest mass killing since the 2022 nursery attack.

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He was my junior, but I felt he was a problem child.

The student first murdered his grandparents at their home in Nonthaburi, a province northwest of Bangkok, using his grandfather's handgun. He then traveled a few kilometers to his school, 'Debsirin Nonthaburi School,' where he indiscriminately fired at staff members. Authorities confirmed that at least five teachers and staff members died, with nine of the injured in critical condition.

After firing at least 26 shots inside the school, the suspect barricaded himself on the third floor. He eventually took his own life, according to reports. Investigators found 26 shell casings and 34 unfired bullets at the scene. Social media footage showed students in purple uniforms hiding under desks and escaping through narrow window ledges.

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He was my junior, but I felt he was a problem child. My friends who knew him said he was very interested in the FBI and firearms, and that he had been bullied by other students.

One student, 17-year-old Purin Khumchu, told AFP that the perpetrator was a junior student he knew as a "problem child." Friends of Khumchu mentioned the suspect's interest in the FBI and firearms, and that he had been bullied by other students.

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Several gunshots were heard very loudly, as if the perpetrator was right above us. I even heard the sound of bullets hitting the floor.

Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul expressed deep condolences and vowed to push for stricter gun control laws. The Ministry of Education is deploying mental health experts to support students and enhance school security. The incident highlights Thailand's ongoing struggle with gun violence, with millions of firearms circulating despite existing regulations.

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I heard more than 10 gunshots and saw students rushing out of the school. Some students weren't even wearing shoes. I saw the body of a student who had been shot in the head and died; it was heartbreaking.