Suspect at large after one killed in Krabi shootout

KRABI: A shootout in the early morning hours today left one man dead in Krabi, allegedly slain by his close friend.

Somyot Kuantai, 20, reportedly fired 10 rounds into the home of the victim while he and his family cowered inside. Police are collecting evidence to issue an arrest warrant for the shooter, who reportedly attacked the family after arguing over a debt with the victim.

“The victim, Adisak Panchoo, 25, took one .38 bullet to his left rib-cage and was rushed to Krabi Provincial Hospital,” Capt Somporn Songseang of the Khlong Thom police said.

“When we checked the inside of the house, we found the area around the refrigerator covered in blood. About seven bullets passed through the tin wall of the house.”

Police questioned the victim’s brother-in-law, Supachai Temtap, 35, an eyewitness to the murder.

“Mr Supachai said there were six people inside the house, including a two-year-old and a five-year-old. The family were watching TV when the shooter arrived. He parked his blue Honda wave, without a license plate, in front of the house,” Capt Somporn said.

“He then walked to the back of the house and shot about five times. Luckily, the family took cover on the ground, so no one was injured during that burst.”

Mr Supachai then tried to placate Mr Somyot about what happened, but he would not listen and continued to fire into the house. It was at that time that one of the bullets hit Mr Adisak. Mr Somyot then fled the scene on his motorbike, Capt Somporn said.

“The two are close friends, but had been arguing because Mr Adisak borrowed some money from Mr Somyot and did not pay it back,” Capt Somporn said.

“We searched for Mr Somyot at this house, but have not found him yet. However, we will continue the search,” he added.

— Kritsada Mueanhawong