Former Community Leader Shoots Journalist to Death, Slashes Female Journalist and Sister with Knife Before Fleeing
A former community leader in Lamphun shot and killed a local journalist outside a noodle shop on April 26, then slashed two women with a machete before fleeing; the attack stemmed from escalating parking disputes.
At 9:30 p.m. on April 26, Lamphun's Radio Center 191 received reports of a shooting and stabbing attack near a noodle shop beside the former Inter-Tech College in Sri Phong Chai community, Phaholyothin Road, Chomphu Sub-district, Muang District, Lamphun Province. The incident left one person dead and two others critically injured. Police from Khlong Nakhon Station, forensic teams, medical examiners from Lamphun Hospital, and rescue units rushed to the scene.
The deceased was identified as Chaiwut (surname withheld), approximately 50 years old, a restaurant employee at Lamphun Wiangthong Hotel and local journalist. He was shot once in the chest and died at the scene. The two injured women were Panutnda (or Bee), 53, a local journalist, stabbed multiple times in the head, back, and hands; and Iv, approximately 49, his sister, slashed in the head and body in several places with critical injuries. Both were rushed to Lamphun Hospital.
Investigations revealed the suspect is Tha, a former community leader who operates a noodle shop adjacent to the incident location. Prior conflicts existed between the parties over parking disputes, which escalated into arguments and loud disturbances. Panutnda had texted her sister warning of potential violence. When Chaiwut opened the door to assess the situation, the suspect shot him with a shotgun. The attacker then grabbed a machete and charged at Panutnda inside the room without hesitation. As she attempted to hide under a bed, her sister heard the gunshot and rushed to help but was also severely slashed. The suspect then fled on a black scooter motorcycle.
The suspect's wife stated she was tidying the shop when the incident occurred and only heard the gunshot and witnessed her husband's attack. She was questioned by officers for detailed investigation. Police are actively pursuing the suspect for prosecution while the media community mourns the loss of a dedicated and well-liked colleague, calling for swift arrest.
