80-Year-Old Man Doused Himself with Gasoline and Self-Immolated, Leaving Farewell Letter
An 80-year-old man in Phatthalung Province doused himself with gasoline and set himself on fire in a metal shed on May 5, leaving behind a farewell letter referencing personal struggles and religious faith.
At 5:45 p.m. on May 5, 2569, Lieutenant Pantharak Pongsaprugsachat, investigator at Na Khayad Police Station, received a report from a good citizen about a fatal fire. The incident occurred in Moo 2, Phanom Wang Subdistrict, Khuan Khanan District, Phatthalung Province. Police and rescue officials from Phatthalung Provincial Administrative Organization, Phatthalung rescue workers, and forensic officers rushed to the scene near a residence.
At the scene, officials discovered fire blazing in a corrugated metal shed. After extinguishing the flames, they found Mr. Khao, 80 years old, the homeowner, burned beyond recognition with only skeletal remains. Near the body, officials discovered gasoline bottles and jerry cans. They also found prepared food with a handwritten note believed to be left by the deceased.
The note read: "I beseech you, Lord, creator of mankind, food, and all living creatures upon this earth. I, Mr. Khao Damchuai, member of Thungsong Church under the leadership of Head Chom Kumarchanchan, born in God, today I offer my life and body back to God through death as predetermined three years ago. Forgive my sins and guide me to happiness in the afterlife. I have strayed from God for so long, but I still love, respect, and revere Him. Please forgive and pardon me. Today I offer this food. When God accepts it, please grant me this final meal before I depart with reverence to God, Jesus, and Head Chom, who faces life challenges I can no longer bear. Thank you, God. Amen."
According to village headman Prasit Kongphet, 57, the deceased lived alone, avoided socializing, and was a very private person. Six to seven days before the incident, he had constructed the corrugated metal shed, but no one knew what for. No one understood why he would harm himself.
The deceased's sister, 63, stated that he had been unwell previously. She visited and repeatedly tried to ask about his condition, but he insisted he was fine and told her not to worry. She later learned he had set himself on fire. She believes her brother did not want to burden anyone and chose to end his life this way.
