A 54-year-old bus that was converted from diesel to natural gas tragically caught fire.
Emergency responders are on high alert following a catastrophic bus fire in Pathum Thani that claimed the lives of at least 20 students and three teachers. Four charges have been filed against the bus driver, Samarn Chankut, 48, who initially fled the scene before surrendering to local authorities.
After turning himself in the same evening, Samarn was brought back to Khu Khut police station in Pathum Thani for further interrogation. According to police reports, he expressed deep shock after the incident.
At the time of the fire, the bus was part of a convoy transporting students from Uthai Thani to an exhibition organized by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand. The tragedy unfolded around noon when the vehicle lost balance, collided with a car, and quickly erupted into flames.
Police investigation suggests the bus was traveling at 70-80 kilometers per hour when the driver experienced a catastrophic loss of control, likening it to hitting a pothole or a tire failure. Flames rapidly engulfed the vehicle following the crash.
The police have charged the driver with several counts, including reckless driving resulting in death, and failing to assist in the aftermath of the accident.
Forensic teams are currently gathering evidence from the scene of this devastating tragedy.
A total of 38 students from Wat Khao Praya Sangkharam school, from Kindergarten 2 to Mathayom 3, were on board the bus, with 20 students and three teachers confirming casualties. Survivors were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals, with three students reported in critical condition.
Family members of the deceased have provided DNA samples to assist in identification, with authorities confirming the identification of 17 bodies so far. The investigation continues, focusing on the safety of the converted natural gas system and the number of gas tanks installed.
The bus, initially registered in 1970, underwent modifications that included replacing its diesel engine with a Mercedes-Benz engine and converting it to run on natural gas. Authorities are probing further into the safety compliance of the vehicle’s gas system.
In a solemn gesture, the national police chief confirmed that His Majesty the King has granted royal patronage to all 23 victims of this tragic incident, with funeral rites set to take place in Uthai Thani province.
