Village headman dies saving girl in Chiang Mai landslide

A landslide in Mae Ai, Chiang Mai, claimed the life of a village headman who died while saving a young girl. His body was found 10 kilometres away from the scene, amid widespread mourning from the community.

A devastating landslide occurred in Ban Doi Laem, Moo 13, Doi Laem subdistrict, Mae Ai district, Chiang Mai province, resulting in six fatalities and three injuries. The last body to be retrieved was that of Teerayut Siriwannasathit, the village headman of Ban Doi Laem, Moo 13. His body was discovered far from the initial disaster site, highlighting the chaos and tragedy of the event.

Assistant village headman Jettakorn Weer recounted the harrowing moments when the landslide took place. He and Teerayut were at the scene, attempting to clear the landslide debris to allow water to flow through. Suddenly, a warning shout about the landslide sent everyone scrambling in different directions for safety.

Jettakorn explained that a young girl who had been running alongside Teerayut survived and later shared her account. She revealed that Teerayut had pushed her out of the path of the landslide, ensuring her safety. Tragically, Teerayut himself was unable to escape and was swept away by the descending mud from the mountain.

Earlier, Teerayut’s wife had taken to Facebook to search for her missing husband, who had gone to aid the villagers amidst the flooding.

“The flash floods have swept through and my husband went to help the villagers but has not been found. Please pray for him.”

Later, she updated her status.

“He helped the villagers until the last moment, warning them to flee as the landslide came down and pushing a young girl to safety. But we still haven’t found him. God, please have mercy.”

After Teerayut’s body was discovered, she posted another update.

“We have found my husband’s body. It was carried away to Ban Hong Mae Ai. Thank you to everyone who prayed for him.”

This news prompted an outpouring of condolences and support from villagers and others who had heard of the tragedy. Many expressed their sympathy and encouraged Teerayut’s wife, daughter, and son to stay strong during this difficult time. The community also praised Teerayut for his heroic actions and dedication to his villagers, reported KhaoSod.