On 13/9, at the police station, Thuan (also known as Hao Dien, residing in Ea Kao ward, now Buon Ma Thuot ward) admitted to ongoing conflicts and jealousy with his common-law wife, Nguyen Thi Kim Hoa, 33, and claimed he was barred from living with her by Hoa's mother, Tran Thi Dung, 55.

Nguyen Nam Dai Thuan (seated) at the time of his arrest. Photo: Dak Lak Police

Thuan had repeatedly visited Hoa's home seeking reconciliation but was turned away. Late last night, he returned and was let in by Hoa's brother, Bui Huu Nghia, 23. Thuan attacked Nghia with a hammer, dragged him into the street, and then fatally stabbed him.

He then entered the house and killed Hoa and Dung. Hoa's 13-year-old son from a previous relationship was also stabbed but escaped to a neighbor's house and was taken to the hospital. He is now in stable condition. Thuan spared Hoa's 3-year-old daughter, his own child.

According to security camera footage and videos recorded by residents, after the murders, Thuan dragged Nghia's body back into the house and cleaned the bloodstains before fleeing on a motorbike.

While on the run, he stole a Honda SH motorbike and disguised himself using a woman's sun-protective clothing and a face covering. Police apprehended him at 8:30 a.m., about 6 km from the crime scene.

Tran Hoa