Thai school shooter learnt how to use guns via social media
A teenager who opened fire at his home and school in Thailand, killing eight people and himself, had taught himself how to use a gun via social media, police have said.
A 14-year-old student in Thailand opened fire at his home and school, killing eight people before taking his own life, according to police sources. The authorities believe the teen learned gun usage through social media consumption, as well as his anxiety over schoolwork, family matters, and conflicts with friends. Police have questioned 17 witnesses in their investigation into the motive behind the attack at the Debsirin Nonthaburi School, which is part of a prestigious secondary school and located near Bangkok.
The boy's grandparents were shot dead at their home using a handgun belonging to his grandfather before he proceeded to the school and targeted teachers and students. Police found a firearm, cartridge cases, the teen's mobile phone, and a knife in his schoolbag. His computer usage reveals that he had accessed violent content on social media.
Forensic officers found the gunshots to be "quite accurate," with several shots hitting "vital spots" on victims. The teen's teacher had previously confiscated a BB gun he had ordered online and brought to school. The teen lived with his grandparents since the age of two after his parents separated. His mother, who wishes to remain anonymous, described him as a "bright, cheerful person" who behaved normally.
She said they were devastated by the tragedy. The teen's father also apologized for his actions. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the country is considering new gun laws following this incident, which is the deadliest shooting in Thailand in years. The school's teacher described the boy as a good student with good grades, while education authorities called him an avid gamer.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul noted that the deceased grandmother might have been strict with the teenager. As the investigation continues, the nation mourns the victims, with some laying flowers at the school and others gathering at a Buddhist temple for the funeral of a 12-year-old girl who was injured during the shooting and died two days later.
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