BANGKOK – A groom in Thailand who is a national paralympic athlete went on a shooting rampage – killing five people including the bride and himself – at his own wedding party at Wang Nam Khiao, Nakhon Ratchasima last night.
The 29-year-old shooter, identified as Chaturong Suksuk – a national para swimmer who had lost his leg in a prior accident – had achieved recognition by winning a silver medal in the 11th Asean Para Games in Indonesia last year.
Wang Nam Khiao police chief Rungroj Tangamnuay, said that the groom shot his 38-year-old bride, her 60-year-old mother, and her 37-year-old sister in the 11pm (local time) incident.
Two guests, aged 50 and 28, were also injured by stray bullets and were promptly rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, the 50-year-old man succumbed to his injuries, raising the death toll to five.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the tragedy unfolded after an argument between the newlyweds during the reception.
Eyewitnesses recounted that following the dispute, the groom retrieved a 9mm pistol from his car and opened fire on his bride, her mother, and her sister, before turning the gun on himself.
The shooter had qualified for participation in the upcoming 2023 World Ability Sport Games scheduled from December 1 to 9 in Nakhon Ratchasima. – November 26, 2023