School Shooting Driven by Academic Stress, PM Says
A 14-year-old student opened fire at Thepsirin School in Nonthaburi on August 7, killing eight people including teachers and his grandparents, with Prime Minister Anutin attributing the attack to academic pressure and the suspect's exposure
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister visited Thepsirin School in Nonthaburi on August 7, 2025, to investigate a school shooting. Anutin described the incident as deeply regrettable, noting that the event had concluded before his arrival. The suspect still had approximately 30 rounds of ammunition remaining; had he not taken his own life first, additional casualties could have occurred.
Anutin revealed that initial findings suggest the shooting was motivated by academic stress. The suspect's grandmother, a teacher, reportedly pressured him to excel in his studies with strict discipline. Police interviews with close friends confirmed the suspect had expressed anxiety about this. Anutin believes the attack was carefully premeditated, given its methodical planning and clear objectives, with the suspect first attacking his grandparents at home.
The weapon used belonged to the suspect's grandfather and was legally registered. During Songkran, the suspect posted images of the gun on Instagram. The death toll stands at 8, including the grandparents and 5 teachers, with over 30 injured, including 9 in critical condition receiving treatment at Phra Nang Klao and Phra Mongkut hospitals.
Anutin discussed firearm regulations with the Police Commander, noting that current law clearly prohibits ordinary citizens from carrying guns outside their homes or into public spaces. He stated that checkpoints will be established to inspect for illegal weapons, and violators will face severe legal consequences.
Investigation of the suspect's computer revealed he had viewed footage of mass shootings in the United States. Anutin attributed this to the 14-year-old's engagement with social media content.
Regarding victim compensation, the Prime Minister confirmed that established protocols from the Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Justice, and Ministry of Education provide support funds. He pledged to maximize assistance for the bereaved families and injured.
Anutin emphasized that the suspect's decision to end his life was voluntary and not coerced by authorities. He noted that while he avoided the word "fortunate," the suspect's suicide prevented further escalation. Had the suspect survived and resisted, police intervention could have become more complicated, potentially resulting in additional tragedy given the suspect's age. Anutin stated that criminal proceedings will be concluded quickly since there is no suspect to apprehend, and lessons learned will be used to strengthen safety measures in schools, universities, and public spaces.
