NEWS
Bangkok. — A visit to a well-known shrine in Bangkok turned tragic after a car suddenly veered into a group of worshippers, leaving one person dead and two others injured.
The incident occurred at the Guanyin Shrine, located within the Thien Fah Foundation in the Yaowarat area of Samphanthawong district.
Police from Plapphla Chai 2 station were called to the scene after the vehicle crashed through the shrine area. When emergency crews arrived, they found the sedan stopped against the shrine’s main altar, with several people caught in the aftermath of the collision.
Rescuers had to use hydraulic equipment to free a 60-year-old woman, identified as Wipa, who had become trapped beneath the front section of the vehicle. She was taken to Klang Hospital in critical condition but later died from her injuries.
Two other worshippers were also hurt in the crash, although their injuries were reported to be less serious.
The driver, identified as 78-year-old Chairoj, was at the shrine to make merit when the incident occurred.
According to Worapol Yangcham, a 60-year-old security guard at the foundation, about 30 people were inside praying when the car suddenly moved toward the crowd. Worapol said he tried to signal the driver to stop before moving out of the vehicle's path moments before the crash.
Police said their initial inquiry indicated that the elderly driver may have suddenly become disoriented and lost consciousness while driving. Investigators were told that he had a history of high blood pressure and may have accidentally pressed the accelerator, sending the car forward into the worshippers.
Authorities are continuing to question the driver and witnesses as they reconstruct the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Police are also preparing legal proceedings over allegations of reckless driving resulting in death and injury.
