Ubon ratchathani: A tragic incident unfolded in Huai Kha Subdistrict, Buntharik District, where a drug-addicted son fatally attacked his 73-year-old mother with an axe. The gruesome murder took place in their single-story home, leaving the community in shock. Police from Huai Kha Police Station discovered the victim, Mrs. Lieng, lying lifeless in the living room, surrounded by blood, while her son, Mr. Sib-et, sat beside her, seemingly in a daze.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. A, a 23-year-old neighbor, was the first to arrive at the scene. She recounted hearing faint cries for help as she approached the house with rice for Grandma Lieng. Upon entering, she found Mrs. Lieng motionless in a pool of blood, with Mr. Sib-Et sitting nearby, displaying a terrifying expression. Ms. A immediately sought help from other villagers and alerted the authorities.
Initial questioning revealed that Mr. Sib-et was heavily intoxicated and incoherent, only managing to admit to attacking his mother with an axe. Authorities suspect that drug-induced psychosis, possibly from methamphetamine use, may have led to hallucinations and the subsequent crime.
The investigation, led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Nirandon, uncovered that financial hardship was a significant factor. As a rubber tapper, Mr. Sib-et faced a lack of income following the end of the rubber tapping season. His addiction to methamphetamine exacerbated the situation, leading to a violent altercation when his mother refused to give him money for drugs. The son, in a drug-fueled rage, then committed the heinous act. Even after the murder, he displayed no remorse, sitting beside his mother's body with a vacant stare.
Further investigation revealed that Mr. Sib-et had a prior criminal record, having been arrested in 2021 for methamphetamine possession and driving under the influence. Despite undergoing rehabilitation, he relapsed, culminating in this tragic event. Neighbors expressed disbelief, describing him as a usually quiet individual, never anticipating such a violent act.