Man Searching for Mushrooms in Nam Nao Forest Attacked by Wild Elephant, Body Severely Mutilated
A 37-year-old mushroom forager from Maha Sarakham was killed and severely mutilated by a wild elephant in Nam Nao Forest, Phetchabun Province on May 21, after the startled animal charged at him while he was collecting mushrooms with friends
On May 21, 2025, Nam Nao Police Station in Phetchabun Province received a report of a wild elephant attack that killed a local mushroom forager in the Baan Sapwang community forest in Nam Nao District. Officers traveled to the scene with Sub-lieutenant Khemchat Prachang, the station commander, along with rescue personnel from the Nam Nao Subdistrict Administration and hospital medical staff.
The incident occurred in a dense community forest behind the village. Officials discovered the victim's remains in a severely mutilated condition, with only the upper torso intact and no clothing. The victim's right leg was found separately, while the left leg was trampled and submerged in a water pool. Internal organs were scattered across the area, and the surrounding ground bore signs of heavy trampling. Numerous elephant footprints were found at the scene.
Initial investigation identified the victim as Phaap, a 37-year-old from Na Thong District in Maha Sarakham Province. He had come to forage for mushrooms with friends to use in cooking and for income. Authorities believe that while Phaap was collecting mushrooms, he encountered a wild elephant that was foraging in the same area. The startled elephant reportedly charged at the foragers, causing them to scatter in different directions. Phaap was unable to escape and was fatally attacked by the elephant. His remains were transported to Nam Nao Hospital for autopsy.
Somkiate Gatiip, director of Nam Nao National Park, explained that mushrooms are currently abundant in the park area, attracting foragers from neighboring provinces. He stated that officials have warned people to be cautious of wild elephants and avoid venturing deep into the forest due to wildlife hazards. He speculated that the attacking elephant may be a male that was separated from its herd and was foraging alone. The increase in human activity in the forest may have stressed the elephant and triggered the attack.
Park officials have ordered staff to track and drive the elephant further into the forest. The public is urged to forage for mushrooms in large groups and to exercise caution around elephants and other wildlife.
