Accused Thai school shooter watched violent content online

BANGKOK: The individual responsible for a fatal school shooting near Bangkok had been found in possession of an air rifle confiscated by a teacher the previous year, according to police, as authorities announced plans to implement new safety measures in schools following Friday's incident. The 14-year-old suspect allegedly killed his grandparents at home before proceeding to his school and fatally shooting six others before taking his own life.

Police stated that the teenager had researched firearm usage on social media for roughly one to two years prior to the assault. Atthapol Anusit, deputy commissioner of the Provincial Police Region 1, disclosed that the boy's mother described him as "bright and cheerful," stating he had never exhibited any unusual behavior. No signs of bullying were reported by the mother, who added that she inquired about any such issues and the teenager always responded negatively.

A knife was discovered in the boy's bag during police investigation, alongside other evidence consisting of a firearm, spent cartridge casings, and a personal computer. The computer was scrutinized, revealing that the child had accessed violent content on social media; however, there was no concrete proof that he had practiced his shooting skills.

The boy had resided with his grandparents for twelve years after his parents divorced. The Ministry of Education pledged to establish new safety protocols within the next three months, encompassing mental health assessments, a system for identifying at-risk individuals and referring them to experts, emergency response drills, anti-bullying initiatives, and enhanced detection methods to prevent prohibited objects from entering schools.

The incident resulted in more than 20 fatalities and injuries, marking Thailand's deadliest mass shooting since 2022 and sparking renewed discussions on gun control in Southeast Asia's most prolific gun-owning nation.