Eight Buddhist monks have been killed and 13 others seriously injured after a pickup truck crashed into them during a pilgrimage in northeastern Thailand. The incident occurred at around midnight on Thursday, July 2, in Mukdahan province's Mueang district, on a roadside in Ban Na Si Nuan, according to police.
Crash Details and Immediate Response
Rescue workers, police, and emergency responders rushed to the scene, where monks were found lying on the road and roadside. Five monks were pronounced dead at the scene, while three others later died in hospital. The 13 injured monks were taken to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment, local media reported.
Preliminary Investigation and Suspect
Preliminary police investigations found that the pickup truck was being driven by a juvenile, who allegedly took the vehicle without permission from a parent or guardian before crashing into the procession of monks. The scene was cordoned off while evidence was gathered. The investigation is ongoing.
