Bangkok —
At 6:00 PM, on July 17th, 2024, Tha Kham police received a report of a truck driver allegedly involved in a major hit-and-run incident, causing damage to more than 29 vehicles across Bang Khun Thian, Bang Khae, and Bang Bon Districts in Bangkok.
According to Pol. Col. Lertsak Khiamsap, the superintendent of Tha Kham Police Station, the truck driver, publicly identified as Mr. Kiatchai Kotphai, 31, reportedly started by hitting one vehicle in front of Tha Kham temple. Despite police efforts to apprehend him, the suspect attempted to evade capture, leading authorities on a high-speed chase spanning several kilometers and three districts.
During the pursuit, the suspect crashed into over 29 vehicles, causing damage and resulting in 10 victims being transported to local hospitals for treatment. The chase ended when the truck driver lost control and veered into a grassy ditch in the Phetkasem Police Station area, where officers apprehended Kiatchai.
Initial reports indicated no illicit substances or illegal items were found in the truck. Kiatchai appeared coherent and showed no signs of intoxication or alcohol odor, though he complained of chest pain and was subsequently admitted to a nearby hospital.
Investigators are awaiting blood test results to determine if Kiatchai was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the incident. They are also looking into the ownership of the truck, which reportedly belongs to a construction site in Bang Pu, Samut Prakan.
Authorities are investigating whether the truck was stolen or if Kiatchai, an employee of the construction site, had taken it with permission.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
