Security Guard Recounts Near-Death Moment: Gunman Attacks School, Shoots Director, Takes 300 Students Hostage

On February 11, a gunman armed with a firearm invaded Phatong Thanakiriwat School in Hat Yai, Songkhla Province. The attacker, an approximately 18-year-old male, first stole a police weapon and rode a motorcycle to the school. He approached the security booth and began shooting, forcing the security guard to flee. The gunman then entered the school, taking over 300 students hostage and shooting the school director twice, causing injuries. Police have surrounded the area and are attempting to negotiate, with the perpetrator continuing to fire shots and refusing to release the hostages.