Bangkok: Several schools in suburban Bangkok suspended classes on Wednesday as police launched a manhunt for an armed suspect who opened fire on a highway rescue vehicle before fleeing into residential areas.

According to Thai News Agency, the Lat Lum Kaeo Police Station issued an urgent public alert for Nopparat, 30, following a shooting incident that began in Chonburi province. The suspect is believed to be hiding in the border zone between Pathum Thani and Nonthaburi provinces, prompting local educational institutions to close for the day as a safety precaution.

The incident was sparked when motorway rescue workers approached a parked pickup truck at an emergency stop to offer assistance. After finding the suspect in a heated argument with his wife and advising the couple to remain calm, the rescue team drove away. The suspect reportedly pursued them and fired two shots at the rescue vehicle before abandoning his truck and fleeing on foot.

Authorities stated that the suspect then hijacked a motorized tricycle at gunpoint, forcing his wife to accompany him. She managed to escape by jumping from the moving vehicle. An arrest warrant has been issued for the suspect, who is considered armed and dangerous, as tactical units continue to sweep the area.