Former Police Officer Kills 34 in Thailand’s Deadliest Mass Shooting, Nation in Shock

Thailand was left reeling after a former police officer carried out the deadliest mass shooting in the country’s history, killing at least 34 people, including 22 children, in a brutal attack that targeted a childcare facility and nearby locations. The incident unfolded in Nong Bua Lam Phu province and has sparked nationwide grief and outrage.

According to authorities, the attacker, who had previously served in the police force before being dismissed, entered a day-care centre during working hours and opened fire on staff and children. The sudden violence triggered panic as teachers and caregivers attempted to protect the children and help them escape. Several adults were also killed in the attack, adding to the scale of the tragedy.

Officials said the gunman later moved through other areas, during which he reportedly took several people hostage, prompting a major security operation. Police and emergency responders rushed to the scene, sealing off the area and launching rescue efforts to evacuate survivors and provide urgent medical assistance to the injured. Hospitals in the region were placed on alert as victims were rushed in for treatment. The motive behind the attack remains under investigation, though initial assessments suggest the assailant may have been driven by personal grievances. Authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding his dismissal from the police force and how he was able to access weapons. The investigation is expected to focus on possible warning signs and lapses that may have preceded the violence.

Thailand’s leadership expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, particularly the deaths of so many young children. Senior officials conveyed condolences to the families of the victims and pledged full support, including counselling and compensation. Flags were lowered in mourning as communities gathered to honour those who were killed.

The shooting has reignited concerns about public safety and gun control in the country, where incidents of such magnitude are rare. The government has announced plans to review security measures at schools and childcare centres nationwide, as well as protocols related to firearm access and monitoring of former security personnel. As the nation mourns, vigils and memorials are being organised across Thailand, with citizens uniting in grief and solidarity. The tragedy has left an indelible mark on the country, prompting calls for accountability and stronger safeguards to prevent similar acts of violence in the future.