Gun attack at Phatthalung furniture store leaves youths terrified

An alarming incident unfolded at a furniture store in Phatthalung, where eight youths were left terrified following an attack by an assailant wielding two guns.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of today, November 20, left bullet casings scattered and glass shattered. Police were alerted to the incident when vehicles were heard circling the area just after 3.30am.

Police, led by Manop Suwanmanee, promptly responded to the attack at the shop located along the Petchkasem parallel road in Thaminram, Mueang Phatthalung.

Upon arrival, officers discovered several lead fragments, 10 number 12 shotgun shells, and a .45 calibre bullet at the scene. Damage was evident, with the second-floor glass windows showing signs of gunfire.

The initial investigation revealed that eight male youths, all under 18 years old, were present in the second-floor bedroom during the incident. They were friends of the shop owner’s son and had been staying overnight in the store.

According to the youths, they heard several cars and motorcycles, whose make and registration were unknown, repeatedly driving past the shop before the shooting began.

“We heard gunshots fired into the air from outside, and shortly after, the sound of motorcycles circling again. Then, there were more shots fired.”

Almost three hours later, the situation escalated as multiple gunshots were heard again, this time accompanied by the sound of shattering glass.

As the noise subsided, the youths ventured downstairs to find the shop had been damaged by gunfire. They immediately contacted the police to report the incident, reported KhaoSod.

Preliminary investigations led officers to take two of the youths to the station for further questioning. The police suspect the attack may have been carried out by a rival group of teenagers targeting the youths inside the shop.

Efforts are underway to identify and locate the suspects responsible for the attack and to formally press charges.