Thai soldiers from the 1623rd Infantry Company reported hearing approximately 10 gunshots near the Ban Khuean Kaeo Temple in Kap Choeng, Surin Province. More than 10 minutes later, they heard two more shots.

After a headcount and weapons check, the 1623rd Infantry Company discovered that Private Ratthapoom Thepsiri had left the barracks without authorization, taking a rifle and ammunition.

Authorities found two critically injured civilians. A 32-year-old resident, shot in the lung, was taken to Surin Hospital.

Private Ratthapoom Thepsiri in Surin Province. Photo: Nation

Private Ratthapoom Thepsiri in Surin Province. Photo: Nation

The Thai army, in conjunction with the police, established a perimeter and issued a warning, urging residents to report any information about the suspect.

After a 10-hour search, authorities found Thepsiri's body in a wooded area about 150 meters east of the shooting scene. It is believed he died by suicide after the attack.

The motive for the shooting remains unclear. The Thai army suggests the stress of frontline duty in the border conflict with Cambodia may have been a factor.

Following the incident, the Thai army ordered mental health evaluations for all soldiers to prevent similar incidents.

Thepsiri had been assigned to the Ta Kwai Temple in the disputed area with Cambodia since June and returned to his unit on 3/8, after a ceasefire agreement between the two countries.

Duc Trung (Nation Thailand, Khaosod)