At least eight Buddhist monks were killed and more than 20 others injured after a pickup truck driven by an 11-year-old boy crashed into a group of pilgrims in Thailand’s northeastern Mukdahan Province.
Authorities said the victims were among a group of 34 Buddhist monks and five lay followers travelling on a pilgrimage from a temple in Mukdahan Province to another temple in neighbouring Ubon Ratchathani Province.
Mukdahan governor, Vorayan Bunarat, disclosed during a press conference that five monks died at the scene of the crash, while three others later succumbed to their injuries in hospital.
According to officials, 22 monks and one lay follower sustained injuries in the incident, with four of the victims reported to be in critical condition.
Speaking on the tragedy, Mukdahan provincial police chief, Major General Pairoj Thaiphutra, said the vehicle was being driven by an 11-year-old boy with special needs.
“The driver, an 11-year-old boy with special needs, took the pickup truck from his family home and drove about 10 km (6 miles) before hitting the group of monks,” Pairoj said.
Police said no charges have been filed as investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Pairoj added that investigators have yet to obtain a statement from the boy because he remains traumatised by the incident.
“Officers have also been unable to question the boy because he remains in shock and is not yet able to give a statement,” he said.
Authorities said investigations into the fatal crash are continuing, while those injured are receiving treatment in hospital.
The incident has sparked concern over road safety and access to vehicles by minors, as officials work to establish how the boy was able to take and operate the pickup truck before the collision.
