Bangkok: Two brothers are being questioned separately after shooting rivals at a Buddhist ordination ceremony, resulting in one death and one injury. According to Thai News Agency, the suspects, Mr. Viroj and Mr. Thani, surrendered to the Lat Bua Luang Police Station following arrest warrants issued by the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Court. The charges stem from an incident at a house in Moo 7, Phraya Banlue Subdistrict, where preparations for an ordination ceremony were underway. The shooting led to the death of Mr. Piyadom, a guest at the ceremony, and injuries to Ms. Supanee, the girlfriend of a DJ at the event.
Authorities initially seized a Glock pistol used in the shooting and separated the suspects for questioning. A firearm was later retrieved from a yellow shoulder bag hidden in a white Ford Everest. Despite reporters' attempts to question the brothers, they remained silent before returning to the interrogation room. Late last night, police escorted the suspects to the forensic science division in Ayutthaya province to test for gunpowder residue, which will serve as evidence in the case.
Witnesses stated that the victim and the perpetrator were former friends who had argued during the Songkran festival. Their attempt at reconciliation failed, and tensions resurfaced at the ceremony. The perpetrator allegedly asked if the victim held any grudges, to which the victim's response was perceived as a challenge. This led the perpetrator to throw a bottle at the victim and subsequently shoot him multiple times, resulting in his death.
The suspects face multiple charges, including jointly committing murder, attempted murder, and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. They are also charged with carrying and firing a gun without a license and reasonable cause. Tomorrow, both brothers will be taken to the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Court for a remand order, with police opposing bail.