Fatal shooting mars Udon Thani village festival amid youth clash
A tragic incident unfolded in Udon Thani’s Chai Wan district when a 31 year old man was fatally shot amidst a village festival dispute.
Police were alerted to the shooting yesterday, March 17, which occurred in the vegetable garden behind a house in Phon Sung subdistrict, and promptly investigated the scene with Police Colonel Ratpholchai Pensongkhram.
Narinthorn “Sek” Thongjuea was found lying face down, having been shot with a 9mm firearm. Officers discovered three spent shell casings nearby and a trail of blood leading away from the scene.
Locals recounted that tensions arose when youths from different villages clashed around 2am during the festival.
It was believed that the deceased, along with others, gathered at the location before the altercation escalated to gunfire. Initial investigations suggested the confrontation stemmed from an earlier disagreement at the event.
CCTV footage from a nearby shop captured the violent episode. At approximately 2.25am, a group of youths on about 10 motorcycles arrived and confronted the victim’s group.
One person from the youth group fired three shots, resulting in Narinthorn’s death and serious injury to another. Police later identified and apprehended the suspect, 18 year old Pee and his accomplice, 19 year old James, after they fled to a dormitory in Mueang district.
During questioning, Pee admitted to firing the weapon, claiming it was in self-defence. Both suspects expressed remorse and apologised to the victim’s family. Police continued their investigation to identify others involved, charging the suspects with attempted murder with intent.
According to Pol. Col. Ratpholchai, the incident was triggered by a misunderstanding. The offenders believed the victim’s group had attacked a village headman’s son, prompting a retaliatory search for the culprits.
The police have since detained 18 people related to the crime, withholding bail due to the gravity of the case.
At Narinthorn’s home, relatives prepared for his funeral in a sorrowful atmosphere. His aunt, 48 year old Lamyong, expressed deep regret over the loss, stating that her nephew, who had no part in the initial conflict, was a good person, reported KhaoSod.
Despite his mother’s warnings, Narinthorn attended the festival, which tragically became his last. His family is now left to mourn and seek justice for his untimely death.
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