In a horrifying turn of events, a wedding day filled with dreams and joy turned into a nightmarish tragedy when a groom, believed to be intoxicated, unleashed a shooting rampage, resulting in the deaths of his wife, mother-in-law, and two other guests. The groom, identified as Chaturong Suksuk, a former paramilitary ranger and Paralympic athlete, eventually took his own life.
The shocking incident took place in the Wang Nam Khieo district of north-east Thailand at 11:25 PM during Saturday's (November 25) wedding celebration of Chaturong, 29, and Kanchana Pachunthuek, 44.
According to witnesses and media reports, tensions were noticed among the guests as Chaturong appeared displeased during the ceremony. It is believed that the couple had an argument, escalating to the point where Chaturong retrieved a pistol from his car.
In a sudden and senseless act of violence, Chaturong began firing shots, tragically claiming the lives of his bride, her 62-year-old mother, Kingthong Klajorho, and her 38-year-old sister, Kornika Manator. Two other guests were also struck by stray bullets, with one of them, 50-year-old Thong Nonkhunthod, succumbing to his injuries despite immediate medical attention.
Authorities revealed that Chaturong and Kanchana had been living together for three years before deciding to marry. While unconfirmed reports speculated that the groom may have felt insecure about the age difference between them, the police emphasized that this remains speculative. Chaturong was reportedly heavily intoxicated during the incident.
The motive behind the massacre remains unclear, although investigations have revealed that the firearms and ammunition used were legally purchased.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from the combination of alcohol, disputes, and access to firearms.
