Ayutthaya: Authorities are actively searching for two brothers who allegedly shot and killed a rival during a drinking session at a Buddhist ordination ceremony in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. The court has issued arrest warrants for the brothers on charges of jointly committing murder. Despite the belief that the suspects remain in the area, recent reports indicate that the two brothers have surrendered to police.
According to Thai News Agency, investigative teams from Lat Bua Luang Police Station, Bang Sai Police Station, and the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Police re-examined the crime scene at a house in Phraya Banlue Subdistrict, where the incident took place. The investigation involved collecting fingerprints and DNA samples from objects at the scene, which was marked by overturned furniture, broken glass, and evident bullet holes. Two 9mm bullet casings were recovered as evidence to help identify those present and to assist in forensic analysis.
Investigators have summoned witnesses to provide detailed accounts of the incident, which led to the identification of the suspects as Mr. Thani, 27, and Mr. Viroj, 33. The brothers reportedly had a prior conflict with the victim, Mr. Piyadom, 36, during the Songkran festival. Pol. Col. Phumthatch Khositwanichpong, Deputy Commander of the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Police, is overseeing efforts to expedite the case, including questioning the suspects' families and associates.
The court's arrest warrants charge the brothers with jointly committing murder, attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms, carrying firearms in public without permission, and unjustified gunfire. Meanwhile, Mr. Piyadom's family has performed religious ceremonies for him at Wat Yom, following the autopsy.
The victim's sister recounted how she discovered her brother's fate at Bang Sai Hospital. She explained that despite a resolved conflict with the suspects, her brother was not cautious, believing the matter to be settled. Witnesses reported that the victim was attacked with a bottle before being shot at close range. The family, still in shock and grieving, vows to pursue justice as they await accountability from those involved.