Mukdahan: An 11-year-old boy stole a car and crashed it into a group of Buddhist monks, killing 8 and seriously injuring 13. The tragic incident occurred at noon today in Ban Na Si Nuan, Mueang District, Mukdahan Province.
According to Thai News Agency, the young boy commandeered a pickup truck and veered off course, colliding with a procession of monks on a pilgrimage. The devastating crash left monks scattered on the road, prompting emergency services to administer first aid and transport the injured to nearby hospitals.
Initial reports detail that five monks lost their lives at the scene, with three more succumbing to their injuries at the hospital, totaling eight fatalities. Thirteen monks sustained serious injuries. The group, consisting of 34 monks and 5 laypeople, was on a pilgrimage from Mukdahan city to Ubon Ratchathani province when the tragedy struck.
Authorities have apprehended the young driver, who is reported to have special needs. Investigations suggest the boy stole his guardian's vehicle and was driving in the opposite direction when the accident occurred. The Governor of Mukdahan Province is actively involved in the investigation and has visited the injured at the hospital to assess their condition.