Death Toll Rises to Nine in Thailand School Shooting

The death toll from a school shooting at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in Nonthaburi Province has risen to nine after a 12 year old girl died from her injuries on Saturday. The attack occurred Friday morning when a 14 year old student allegedly shot and killed his grandparents at home before traveling to the school and opening fire. The shooter later took his own life. The victims include three students, three teachers, two school officials, and the attacker's two grandparents. More than 30 people were wounded in the attack; as of Saturday evening, 14 remained hospitalized with seven in critical condition.

Police reports indicate the suspect used a 9mm pistol legally registered to his grandfather. Investigators found that the teenager fired at least 26 bullets and possessed 34 additional rounds of ammunition. A lockdown was declared for approximately 30 minutes while students were evacuated from the premises. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos where students barricaded classroom doors with desks and hid in the dark. One witness noted that the shooter had previously brought a BB gun to school, which was confiscated by a teacher.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has vowed to introduce new gun laws, stating that only government officials on duty should be allowed to carry firearms. He rejected suggestions that teachers should carry guns for self defense. Thailand has the highest rate of civilian gun ownership in Southeast Asia, and the country has seen several high profile mass shootings in recent years, including a 2022 attack that killed 37 people.

Investigations into the motive are ongoing. While some reports mentioned the teenager may have experienced school related stress, a classmate stated there were no signs of bullying. The student's grandmother's sister described him as a well behaved child who kept to himself. Police are currently questioning witnesses and the suspect's parents to establish the cause of the shooting.