Drugged driver crashes into noodle shops, killing 1, injuring 9
A Thai driver under the influence of drugs crashed his pickup into two roadside noodle shops in the Isaan province of Udon Thani last night, October 24, killing one person and injuring nine others.
Mueang Udon Thani Police Station officers, along with rescue teams from three hospitals, were called to the accident scene outside a petrol station on Udondutsadi Road. Two noodle shops located at the scene were damaged in the incident.
A 51 year old Thai man named Chatchai was pronounced dead at the scene. Three victims sustained serious injuries, while six others suffered minor injuries.
According to Channel 3, the pickup was driven at high speed when it crashed into the first noodle shop. The vehicle then collided with a nearby tree before hitting another noodle shop.
The driver, 21 year old Kiattisak, waited at the scene in shock. His 10 year old sister was present but neither of them was injured. He refused to provide information to the rescuers and police, stating that he was confused due to a lack of sleep.
An alcohol test conducted on Kiattisak revealed 29 milligrammes per cent of alcohol in his system, which was not over the legal limit.
Officers then carried out a drug test, which showed the presence of methamphetamine, also known as Yaba, in his system. A search of Kiattisak’s vehicle revealed drug paraphernalia, including a lighter and foil paper with drug residue.
Superintendent of Mueang Udon Thani Police Station Phattanawong Chanphon told Channel 7 that officers had not yet concluded the cause of the accident.
While drug use was believed to have contributed to the fatal accident, the scene was also deemed hazardous for both motorists and pedestrians due to inadequate lighting. Plans were made to install more street lights and traffic signs in the area to prevent future accidents.
In a related incident earlier this month, a drug-addicted man crashed his sedan into an electric pole on Soi Kat Phrao 48 in Bangkok, damaging 12 other poles and a transformer in the area. Police found 25 Yaba pills and crystal meth in his possession.
