7-10-024 (BANGKOK) Thai authorities are frantically investigating a gruesome family tragedy that occurred in a affluent neighbourhood of Songkhla, southern Thailand. The incident, which claimed four lives, is believed to be a case of murder-suicide involving a former municipal council member, his wife, and their two teenage children.
On the afternoon of 7 October 2024, law enforcement officials responded to a distress call reporting multiple fatalities at a luxurious residence in Soi Sai Buri 49, situated in the Bo Yang subdistrict of Songkhla’s Mueang district. Police Colonel Banteang Lao Charoen, Superintendent of Songkhla City Police Station, promptly dispatched a team of investigators, forensic experts, and local rescue units to the scene.
Upon arrival, the authorities were confronted with a harrowing sight. The body of a 62-year-old man, identified as the homeowner and a former municipal council member, was discovered lifeless near the entrance of the ground floor living room. Adjacent to him on a nearby sofa lay the body of his 15-year-old son, a fourth-form student at a prestigious local school.
The grim discoveries continued as the investigation moved to the upper floor. In one bedroom, officers found the body of a 40-year-old woman, presumed to be the wife of the former councillor, with a 9mm pistol still clutched in her hand. The body of their 17-year-old daughter, a sixth-form student poised to sit university entrance exams, was located in an adjacent bedroom.
Initial findings suggest that the wife may have been responsible for the deaths of her family members before turning the weapon on herself. However, investigators are exercising caution and exploring all possible angles before drawing definitive conclusions.
Detective Chief Inspector Somchai Rattanaporn, leading the investigation, stated, “While early evidence points towards a murder-suicide scenario, we are meticulously examining all aspects of this tragic incident. We are currently in the process of interviewing relatives and close associates to ascertain any underlying issues that may have precipitated this heartbreaking event.”
Sources close to the investigation have hinted at the possibility of domestic troubles being a contributing factor. However, authorities are urging the public to refrain from speculation until a comprehensive inquiry has been completed.
The local community has been left in a state of shock, with neighbours describing the family as seemingly well-adjusted and respected. A long-time resident of the area, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed disbelief: “They always appeared to be a happy family. The children were bright and well-mannered. It’s unfathomable that something like this could happen here.”
