Eight Buddhist monks were killed and more than 20 others injured after a pickup truck allegedly driven by an 11-year-old boy ploughed into a group of pilgrims in Thailand’s northeastern province of Mukdahan, authorities said on Thursday.
The victims were part of a group of 34 Buddhist monks and five lay followers who were travelling on foot from a temple in Mukdahan province to another in neighbouring Ubon Ratchathani province as part of a religious pilgrimage.
Eight Monks Killed, Over 20 Injured
Mukdahan Governor Vorayan Bunarat said five monks died at the scene, while three others later succumbed to their injuries in hospital.
Another 22 monks and one lay follower were injured in the crash. Four of the injured remain in critical condition, according to provincial authorities.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Thailand, where Buddhist pilgrimages are an important religious tradition.
11-Year-Old Allegedly Took Family Vehicle
Mukdahan Provincial Police Chief Major General Pairoj Thaiphutra said the pickup truck was allegedly taken from the boy’s family home before the crash.
“The driver, an 11-year-old boy with special needs, took the pickup truck from his family home and drove about 10 kilometres before hitting the group of monks,” Pairoj told reporters.
Authorities said the child has not yet been questioned because he remains traumatised by the incident.
Police Investigation Continues
Police have not filed any charges as investigators continue to establish exactly how the crash occurred.
According to officials, the boy is still in a state of shock and has been unable to provide a statement.
Investigators are expected to examine all circumstances surrounding the incident before deciding on any further legal action.
The crash is one of the deadliest road accidents involving Buddhist pilgrims in Thailand in recent years and has prompted renewed concerns over vehicle safety and supervision involving minors.
(with inputs from Reuters)
