Ubon ratchathani: Relatives wept as they received the bodies of 10 monks who died in an accident caused by an 11-year-old boy driving a pickup truck. The Office of the Insurance Commission (OIC) is coordinating with insurance companies to pay compensation to the monks and their families. Meanwhile, "Oi Saengsilp" performed a ceremony to invite the spirits of the deceased monks back for funeral rites. Villagers confirmed they had never seen the 11-year-old boy drive the truck to drop off his grandmother.
According to Thai News Agency, the relatives of the monks gathered in profound grief to collect the bodies for funeral rites, with most ceremonies to be held at Wat Nam Khun in Ta Kao Subdistrict, Nam Khun District. The sorrow was palpable as family members, including the mother and aunt of Phra Yothin Wannasri, 21, awaited the arrival of his body at the temple. The other monks' bodies were sent to their respective hometowns across several provinces, including Ubon Ratchathani, Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, and Yasothon.
Ms. Bunthida Somchai, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society, visited the monks still receiving treatment. Two remain in critical condition. She highlighted the complexity of the situation and the impact of news reports on all involved parties. The Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and will take action against inappropriate content online. Even with the child at fault, the Child Protection Act remains applicable, and those sharing harmful information about the child's family will face consequences.
In the morning, relatives performed traditional rituals at the accident site, inviting the spirits of the deceased with flowers, incense, and candles. Artist Ooy Saengsilp conducted a ritual for his father, monk Ratchata Thongburan. Despite widespread speculation, vendors at the Mukdahan Municipal Market confirmed they have never seen the child driving his grandmother, who has been selling there for over a decade.
Ms. Teunjai Kongsombat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, stated that the 11-year-old falls under the Child Protection Act due to his age and registered disability, specifically Category 7, autism. Multidisciplinary teams have determined that the child requires welfare protection, and he is currently under the Ministry's care with psychological support being provided. The Ministry will also coordinate with the justice system to support the child and victims.
Mr. Chuchat Pramoonphol, Secretary-General of the OIC, assured that the Mukdahan office is investigating to guarantee that victims and their heirs receive entitled benefits. The vehicle is insured under Theves Insurance Company, with victims entitled to medical expenses and compensation for death or permanent disability. Further coverage will be determined based on legal liability findings.