Bangkok:A man has been arrested following the fatal shooting of his best friend in what he claims was an accidental discharge of his firearm. The incident occurred at the victim's residence behind Wat Don Mueang on Cherdwuthaak Road in the Don Mueang District.
According to Thai News Agency, the suspect, Mr. Praphan, also known as Tum, was apprehended along with his girlfriend while hiding in Soi Samakkee 51, Tha Sai Subdistrict, Mueang Nonthaburi District. The arrest followed a request for information from Rattanathibet Police Station. Mr. Sontharat, also known as Jack, the victim, was shot inside his home at approximately 1015 PM on November 4th.
Investigators discovered Mr. Tum with significant bleeding under his chin, indicating he had sustained an injury. After allegedly shooting his friend, he reportedly shot himself under the chin, with the bullet lodging in his cheek. He discarded the weapon near the scene before fleeing. His girlfriend claimed she did not flee but instead took him to a clinic for treatment. Authorities plan to charge Mr. Tum with murder and firearms offenses once his medical condition stabilizes.
The victim's wife reported that her husband and Mr. Tum had been drinking outside their house prior to the shooting. Mr. Tum had gone inside to clean a homemade .38 caliber firearm, after which she heard a single gunshot. Her husband, shot in the left rib cage, sought help but succumbed to his injuries. Neighbors corroborated that Mr. Tum, in a state of panic, shot himself with the same firearm, resulting in serious injuries and heavy bleeding before his attempt to escape.