23-12-2024 (BANGKOK) A birthday celebration turned tragic when a defence volunteer opened fire at a rice soup restaurant in Hat Yai, killing two people and injuring three others, including a six-year-old girl, following a dispute over table service.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:00 PM on December 22 at a restaurant on Nuan Kaew Uthit Road in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province. The suspect, identified as Akkaraphon, 50, a local defence volunteer, allegedly became enraged when a waiter cleared his table while he had stepped outside to smoke.
Among the victims were Sitthiphong, 48, and his wife Orachon, 45, who were celebrating their child’s birthday at the establishment. Sitthiphong was pronounced dead at the scene after sustaining a gunshot wound to the head, whilst his wife succumbed to similar injuries at Hat Yai Hospital. Their six-year-old daughter suffered head injuries in the incident.
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The restaurant owner, Phawana, 46, sustained a gunshot wound to the head, whilst another customer, Suriya, 42, was struck in the right arm. Both survivors are currently receiving treatment at Hat Yai Hospital.
According to witness statements, the suspect had been drinking alone when he temporarily left his table to smoke. A waiter, believing the customer had departed, began clearing the table. Upon returning, Akkaraphon became incensed and engaged in a heated argument with both the waiter and the restaurant owner.
The suspect initially left the premises but returned shortly thereafter, whereupon he allegedly drew a 9mm pistol and opened fire indiscriminately inside the restaurant. Police recovered eight shell casings from the scene.
A 12-year-old boy, whose family was celebrating his birthday, recounted how they were innocent bystanders when the argument erupted between the gunman and restaurant staff. “We were just sitting down to eat when we saw them arguing. We had nothing to do with it,” he told police.
Following the shooting, Akkaraphon surrendered himself to Deputy Superintendent Anuwat Ritthichai and Superintendent Thirawat Saen-in of the Hat Yai Police Station, along with the weapon used in the attack.
Police Colonel Phumi Banthip, Superintendent of Hat Yai Police Station, is overseeing the investigation. Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage and continuing to question witnesses and the suspect.
