Gunman of mistaken identity shooting captured after 13 years

The mistaken identity of a rival gang led to a tragic fatal shooting outside a grocery store, with the suspect evading capture for 13 years before finally being apprehended yesterday, September 29. The incident has left the local community reeling and reflects the severe consequences of violent misunderstandings.

Police arrested 42 year old Sirichai Chok based on an arrest warrant issued by the Chachoengsao Provincial Court on December 7, 2011. The arrest took place outside a convenience store along Highway 3309 in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.

Sirichai faces charges of premeditated murder following a prolonged investigation.

The criminal act occurred on the night of December 5, 2011, when Adisak, the victim, was chatting with relatives outside a grocery store in the Mueang district of Chachoengsao. Two assailants arrived on a motorcycle and fired a short-barrelled shotgun at Adisak, resulting in his death before the perpetrators fled the scene.

According to Police Colonel Phaitoon Kusantiya, the initial investigation indicated that the shooting was a case of mistaken identity. Witnesses reported a prior altercation between two groups of teenagers near the store.

Following the altercation, Adisak and his relatives happened to be sitting outside the same store. The group of teenagers, returning to the scene, mistakenly identified Adisak and his relatives as their rivals and carried out the fatal shooting.

Investigators gathered sufficient evidence to identify Sirichai and an accomplice, leading to the issuance of arrest warrants. However, it took another 13 years to track down Sirichai and bring him to justice. The arrest was carried out under the supervision of Police Colonel Phaitoon Kusantiya and Police Lieutenant Colonel Kittibodin Kimsea.

During interrogation, Sirichai admitted to the crime, confirming the investigators’ long-held suspicions. He has since been transferred to the Mueang Chachoengsao Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod.

The arrest marks the end of a lengthy pursuit for justice, bringing some closure to the family of the victim, Adisak. However, the incident underscores the far-reaching impacts of violent disputes and the tragic errors that can arise from such conflicts.