Three injured in school shooting in Thailand, shooter apprehended
A school shooting in Hat Yai, Thailand has left three injured, with the shooter being apprehended by police.
In a violent incident at a school in Hat Yai, Thailand, three individuals were injured, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. The police reported that the suspected shooter was apprehended after initial reports suggested he was shot dead by authorities. Among the victims were a woman and a 14-year-old student who were admitted to the hospital for gunshot wounds and underwent surgery. Another child sustained an ankle injury from a fall, indicating a chaotic environment during the shooting.
Eyewitness accounts state that the suspect entered the Phatong Prathan Khiriwat School visibly distressed and armed, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire shortly after his arrival. The provincial government confirmed these details and noted that they took immediate action to ensure the safety of the students and staff. The school administrator, while present at the scene, was reportedly overwhelmed and unable to provide further comments about the situation.
The prevalence of gun ownership in Thailand, which is among the highest in the region with approximately 10 million firearms in circulation, raises concerns about public safety and the potential for such violent incidents. This shooting underscores ongoing issues related to gun control and mental health, as the motives behind the attack are yet to be confirmed, but it stresses the need for proactive measures to prevent future occurrences.