Man arrested for fatal sledgehammer attack in Ayutthaya
A 28 year old man has been apprehended after allegedly breaking into the home of his 42 year old acquaintance and fatally striking him with a sledgehammer at 3am yesterday, February 16. The incident took place in front of the victim, Pichat’s two children, his 8 year old son and 10 year old daughter, in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province.
Following the incident, police gathered evidence and obtained an arrest warrant from the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Court for the suspect, Chalermwong, also known as “Kong,” on charges of intentional murder and theft.
By 4pm the same day, Deputy Superintendent of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Police Station, Police Lieutenant Colonel Monchai Luangprasert, along with his investigative team, tracked down and arrested Chalermwong at a residence in Sena district. He was subsequently taken to Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Police Station for questioning.
When questioned by reporters about the motive behind the attack, Chalermwong, wearing a black mask, remained expressionless and refused to comment. Police did not allow media access to the investigation room where he was being held.
Chalermwong’s sister, Nuengreuthai (surname withheld), expressed her sorrow over the incident and acknowledged her brother’s hot-tempered nature. She explained that the victim, Pichat, was previously a construction worker for their father and was known to the family.
She recounted how Pichat, who was raising his two children on a modest income, was diligent in his work. On occasion, she had helped by buying meals for the children, who often ate instant noodles with eggs.
Nuengreuthai revealed that the conflict arose after her brother discovered Pichat had stolen wrought iron from his home. This discovery led to an argument, and Chalermwong had called her, threatening to kill someone.
She had dismissed his threats, as he had made similar remarks in the past without acting on them due to his quick temper. She admitted that she often intervened in his disputes to prevent such incidents.
The victim’s 46 year old brother, Chao, expressed relief that the police had quickly apprehended the suspect. He mentioned that the family and Pichat’s children were anxious and feared for their safety until the arrest.
Chao stated that the family intends to support and educate the children, as their mother has been absent for some time, reported KhaoSod.
Police Major General Naruenat Putthaisong, Chief of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Police, is scheduled to hold a press conference regarding the case tomorrow, February 18.
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