Herbal Doctor Shot Dead at Dinner Table in Phatthalung
A 40-year-old herbal doctor was shot dead at his dining table in Phatthalung while hosting friends for dinner; police suspect the shooter fired from a nearby rubber plantation and are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the suspect.
At 9:53 p.m. on September 24, investigators from Thalae Noi Police Station responded to a fatal shooting report at a residential property in Kuankhun district, Phatthalung. Officers arrived with forensic teams and a hospital physician to find Chakrakrit Suwannaratana, a 40-year-old traditional herbal medicine doctor and homeowner, dead beneath the dining table. He had suffered two gunshot wounds to the right ear and died at the scene.
Investigation revealed that Chakrakrit had invited a mixed group of male and female friends for an evening meal, seating them at two separate gender-divided tables. While he sat chatting with approximately five male friends, two gunshots rang out in succession, striking him and causing him to collapse from his chair. His companions scattered in panic.
Police say CCTV footage captured portions of the incident and is under detailed review. Initial theory suggests the suspect fired a scoped rifle from a nearby rubber plantation before fleeing the area. However, the shooter's identity and precise motive remain unconfirmed. Authorities are interviewing witnesses, including two of the victim's friends, examining CCTV recordings, canvassing the neighbourhood, and analyzing forensic evidence to identify and pursue charges against the perpetrator.
