BANGKOK — A horrific mass shooting at the Debsirin Nonthaburi School on the northwestern outskirts of Bangkok has left at least eight people dead, including the 14-year-old gunman.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed that more than 30 others were injured, with nine victims currently in critical condition.
Chronology of the Violence
According to investigators, the violence began prior to the school assault when the teenage suspect shot and killed his grandparents at their home using his grandfather's registered 9mm handgun.
Just after 10:00 local time, the armed teenager arrived at the Debsirin Nonthaburi School campus where he was enrolled as a student.
Moving through the buildings, he targeted faculty members, killing five teachers before turning the weapon on himself.
Prime Minister Anutin noted that the shooter still had over 30 rounds of ammunition remaining when he died by suicide.
Official Response and Motive Investigation
Authorities revealed that the murders of the suspect's grandparents were only uncovered after police searched the family residence following the school attack.
Prime Minister Anutin described the rampage as "well prepared" with "clear steps and clear goals". Information gathered by police from a close friend suggests the teenager may have been experiencing extreme "stress from studying".
National Police Chief General Kittiratt Phanphet added that forensic examinations showed the gunman's shots were disturbingly accurate, frequently targeting vital areas.
Traumatized Eyewitnesses and School Closure
The unexpected violence sent shockwaves through the prestigious institution and the wider nation.
Students recounted terrifying moments of barricading themselves under desks, hearing gunfire echo directly overhead, and fleeing over fences to safety.
In response to the tragedy, Debsirin School administration announced that the Nonthaburi campus and its branches will remain closed for the following week, from August 10 to August 14.
The incident has reignited intense public debate surrounding firearm accessibility and gun control regulations across Thailand.
