Van in collision with elephant on Highway 344 in Chon Buri
A van travelling downhill on Highway 344 collided with an elephant crossing the road, resulting in significant damage to the vehicle and injuries to two passengers. The elephant subsequently wandered off and was later found dead in the early yesterday morning, February 17.
The incident occurred at kilometre marker 44, between Baan Bueng and Klaeng, in the Hang Sung subdistrict, Nong Yai district, Chon Buri province. The van, a silver Volkswagen with registration นก168 from Rayong, sustained severe front-end damage.
It was reported that the van was descending Baan Huai Yama before the PTT petrol station when it hit the elephant, which was crossing towards Hang Sung subdistrict. Two people, including a man and a woman, were injured in the accident.
Following the accident, locals observed the elephant near a restaurant called Krua Rim Suan, displaying aggressive behaviour by charging at lights and chasing barking dogs. By 10am yesterday, February 17, the elephant was discovered dead in a forested area behind Suk Somboon Factory, reported KhaoSod.
Officials have initiated an examination and have proceeded to bury the elephant carcass within the jurisdiction of the relevant officials.
In similar news, motorists in Prachin Buri province experienced a heart-stopping moment when two wild elephants wandered onto a public road, narrowly avoiding a collision with passing vehicles. The dramatic incident has reignited concerns over human-wildlife conflict in the region.
The elephants, which had strayed from Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, were spotted near Ban Hua Sa School in Si Maha Phot district. Startled drivers were forced to slow down as the massive animals lumbered across the road, raising fears of potential accidents.
Locals revealed that these elephants have been causing havoc in nearby farming communities, trampling crops and damaging property. Wildlife rangers have been closely monitoring the pair, making efforts to guide them back to the sanctuary before further damage occurs.
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