Employee critically injured in shooting at Krabi’s Maya Bay national park

A violent disagreement escalated into a shooting incident between two employees of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi, leaving one critically injured. Yutthapong Damsrisuk, the park’s chief, revealed that the victim was shot twice during the dispute, which happened at their residence in Maya Bay, a beloved tourist spot.

Following the altercation, the injured party was rushed to Krabi Hospital for surgical intervention, while the aggressor was apprehended and is now in police custody. Atthapol Charoenchansa, the director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), has been notified and has instructed the park to settle this matter promptly.

The preliminary investigation conducted by Yutthapong indicated that the argument erupted within their shared accommodation. The situation spiralled out of control when one of them drew a firearm and shot the other. This occurred around 10am but it had no impact on the visiting tourists and Maya Bay remains open for visitors.

There are 24 employees tasked to cater to the needs of tourists at Maya Bay. The location is frequented by an average of 2,000 visitors daily. The superintendent of Koh Phi Phi Police Station, Surasak Jaidee, confirmed that the investigations are ongoing. The initial report suggests that the two employees were having breakfast when the dispute led to the shooting.

Atthapol disclosed that the two park workers, natives of Trang and friends, have been serving the park for over a year. The disagreement stemmed from a personal issue, and alcohol was not involved during the time of the incident. The authorities were alerted immediately after the shooting, and the gunman surrendered without resistance upon their arrival, reported Bangkok Post.

The capture of Anawin, the suspected gunman in the cases of shooting Nong Yod and Teacher Jeab, occurred in Chiang Mai. After a restful night and watching the sunrise atop the mountain, he was apprehended and flown back to the capital for further questioning. To read more click HERE.