Principal Succumbs to Injuries After School Shooting
A tragic school shooting in southern Thailand has claimed the life of a respected principal. Sasiphat Sinsamosorn died early Thursday morning after suffering serious gunshot wounds during a violent siege at Phatong Prathan Keeriwat School near Hat Yai.
The attack took place shortly before 5:00 PM local time on Wednesday. An 18 year old gunman entered the school building and opened fire, leaving students and teachers trapped inside for nearly two hours.
Doctors tried to save the principal, but she passed away before dawn, according to local police officials.
Students Injured During the Chaos
The gunman also shot a female student during the attack. Doctors say she is now in stable condition and continues to receive medical care.
Another student suffered injuries after jumping from a window while trying to escape the building. That student remains hospitalized.
Police arrested the suspect after a tense two hour standoff. Officers secured the school and evacuated those inside once they took him into custody.
Possible Motive Under Investigation
Authorities have not confirmed the exact motive behind the shooting. However, local media reports suggest the suspect may have had a personal dispute with a teacher at the school.
Investigators continue to question the suspect and review evidence to understand what led to the violent incident.
School Community in Mourning
The school shared a heartfelt message on Facebook expressing deep sorrow over the loss of their principal.
In the post, the school described Sasiphat as a kind and dedicated leader. Staff and students praised her compassion and commitment to education. Many community members have gathered to pay tribute and offer condolences to her family.
Rising Concerns Over Gun Violence in Thailand
Thailand continues to face serious challenges related to gun violence. Firearm ownership remains widespread across the country, both legally and illegally.
In recent years, several deadly shootings have shocked the nation. Last year, a gunman killed five people at a food market in Bangkok. In 2023, a 14 year old boy shot and killed two people inside a luxury shopping mall in central Bangkok.
In one of the deadliest incidents, a former police officer killed 36 people, including many children, at a kindergarten in northeastern Thailand in 2022.
These repeated tragedies have increased public concern about school safety and firearm control laws.
