27-12-2024 (BANGKOK) A tragic incident unfolded early Friday morning when a double-decker coach carrying New Year holidaymakers crashed in Thailand’s northeastern province of Khon Kaen, resulting in the death of the driver and leaving eight passengers injured.
The devastating accident occurred at approximately 6:30 AM local time when the Air Muang Loei coach, carrying 36 passengers, failed to navigate a bend on the notorious Maliwan Road. The vehicle careened off Road 201 at kilometre marker 225 in Chumphae district, colliding violently with roadside trees.
Deputy Superintendent Pol Lt Lanthae Chanabua of Chumphae police station confirmed that the driver, identified as Wanchai Pongkhan, was pronounced dead at the scene. Among the eight injured passengers, two are reported to be in serious condition. All casualties were promptly transported to Chumphae Hospital for medical attention.
The ill-fated journey began Thursday night in Bangkok, with passengers heading to Chiang Khan district in Loei province for the New Year holiday period. Initial police investigations suggest driver fatigue may have been a contributing factor to the accident.
“Our examination of the crash site revealed no skid marks on the road surface, indicating there was no attempt to brake before impact,” stated Pol Lt Lanthae. “The timing of the incident strongly suggests the driver may have dozed off at the wheel.”
The stretch of highway where the accident occurred, commonly known as Maliwan Road, comprises sections of Road 201 and Road 12, and serves as a crucial transport link between Khon Kaen and Loei provinces.
