Ex-Girlfriend Shoots Teacher Dead; Suspect Claims Gun Misfired
A 33-year-old woman was arrested after her ex-boyfriend, a teacher, was shot dead in his Khon Kaen bedroom; she claims the gun misfired during a struggle, but police say witnesses saw the entire incident.
A 34-year-old teacher was shot dead in his bedroom in Muang District, Khon Kaen at approximately 1:30 a.m. on July 27. The suspect, a 33-year-old woman and the victim's ex-girlfriend, drove to Nong Bua Lamphu Province after the incident before surrendering to police with her father's assistance.
At Ban Pet Police Station in Khon Kaen on July 27, officers took the suspect into custody for questioning. She remained calm and silent, wearing black clothing and a face mask, and made no statements to the media. Police Colonel Phakkaphoomi Detchareungsit, Ban Pet Station commander, stated that initial questioning found the suspect denied involvement, claiming a struggle over the gun caused it to discharge and strike the victim fatally. However, investigators have witnesses present at the scene who saw the entire incident.
Police oppose bail citing the serious nature of the case and plan to request the court for detention on July 29. The suspect possessed the firearm under a valid ownership permit but lacked a carrying permit. Further investigation will determine whether the shooting was premeditated or intentional. The suspect and victim had dated previously before breaking up. Officers are investigating whether she had been monitoring his behavior, leading to confrontation and her forceful entry into the house.
The suspect works in general labor. Police indicate jealousy was the trigger, though whether the act was premeditated remains under investigation. Additional charges may be filed pending witness and suspect statements.
