In Thailand’s northeastern Mukdahan province, a tragic road accident took place during a Buddhist pilgrimage when an 11-year-old boy drove his parents’ pickup truck into a procession of monks, resulting in the deaths of nine monks and injuries to around 10 others.According to local police and authorities, a group of 35 monks and five lay followers were walking along a roadside when the incident occurred.The boy reportedly took the vehicle without permission and lost control, crashing directly into the procession.Witnesses described a sudden and violent impact, with several monks thrown into the air due to the force of the collision.

Initial reports confirmed that five monks died at the scene, while three others later succumbed to their injuries in hospital, bringing the death toll to nine.Multiple injured individuals remain under treatment, with some reported in serious condition.CCTV footage from nearby premises captured the monks walking peacefully before the crash disrupted the procession.Authorities stated that the child, being under 12 years of age, cannot be held criminally liable under Thai law.Police have initiated a forensic examination of the vehicle and are also investigating parental responsibility and supervision issues.

Officials and local leaders have highlighted this incident as a serious reminder of road safety concerns in Thailand, a country already known for high rates of traffic accidents due to speeding, weak enforcement, and unsafe driving practices.