Man shoots mother-in-law in Phuket bar after verbal abuse
A tragic incident unfolded in Koh Kaew, Phuket, when a 27 year old man shot his mother-in-law in a well-known bar and restaurant. The event occurred last night, with the suspect later surrendering to the police.
The altercation, which led to the shooting, was reportedly the result of long-standing verbal abuse.
Police and emergency services responded to the scene around 8pm, finding the victim with a critical gunshot wound to the head. Despite receiving CPR and being rushed to Mission Hospital, she could not be saved.
The suspect, identified as Natchipong Laokham, initially fled but later turned himself in at the Phuket City Police Station. Descriptions from those familiar with him indicate that Natchipong has a history of being hot-tempered and a previous criminal record. He confessed to the shooting, providing his version of events to the investigators.
Preliminary findings by the police suggest a history of tension between Natchipong and his mother-in-law, linked to her alleged insults towards his parents. Last night, Natchipong had gone to the restaurant to drink, where a confrontation ensued after the woman allegedly continued her verbal attacks.
In a moment of anger, Natchipong resorted to using a firearm, shooting the woman once. He then contacted the police to report the incident.
When police did not arrive immediately, Natchipong drove himself to the station to surrender. Phuket Provincial Commander Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum confirmed that Natchipong is facing several charges, including murder, illegal firearm possession, and discharging a firearm in public without justification, reported The Phuket News.
The investigation continues, with police reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses to piece together. Natchipong remains in custody as legal proceedings are prepared.
In related news, police arrested two Thai boys who mistakenly shot a 15 year old girl in the head on a road in the Phra Phrom district of Nakhon Si Thammarat province on December 9, believing her to be their rival.
