Thai Teen's School Shooting: Learning Stress Suspected Cause

A shocking shooting incident occurred in Thailand, where a 14-year-old boy opened fire within a school, resulting in the deaths of eight people, including teachers and students, and injuring over 30 others. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the scene at Thepsirin School in Nonthaburi province on February 14th to assess the situation. Several ministers and high-ranking officials accompanied the Prime Minister, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, the Minister of Education, the Minister of Public Health, the Minister of Social Development and Human Security, and the Deputy Minister of Interior. Also present were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, the Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, and the Governor of Nonthaburi Province. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister received an initial briefing from the Minister of Education and the Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police before entering a meeting room for a detailed account of the incident. He inquired about the causes, sequence of events, and other relevant information. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated his sorrow over the incident but noted it was fortunate that the situation ended quickly. He revealed that the perpetrator still had over 30 rounds of ammunition, suggesting that more lives could have been lost had he not taken his own life. Regarding the motive, the Prime Minister indicated that academic stress is strongly suspected. He mentioned that the perpetrator's grandmother, who was a teacher, was reportedly strict about his studies, and interviews with his close friends indicated that he frequently spoke about his academic stress. The Prime Minister further elaborated that the perpetrator's actions suggest a well-prepared plan with clear steps and objectives. Information indicates that he shot his grandparents at their home before proceeding to the school. Initially, authorities were unaware of this, but the two deceased were discovered when police visited the home to locate the perpetrator's parents. The firearm used was identified as belonging to the grandfather and was legally registered. Previous reports on social media had shown the perpetrator posting images of firearms. The confirmed death toll includes five teachers, the grandparents, and the perpetrator, totaling eight. Over 30 individuals were injured, with nine in critical condition, receiving care at Phra Nang Klao Hospital and Phramongkutklao Hospital. Moving forward, the Prime Minister announced discussions with the Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police regarding measures to control firearm possession. He reiterated that the law clearly prohibits the general public from carrying firearms without just cause and emphasized the need for stricter checks on firearm possession at checkpoints to prevent similar incidents. Prime Minister Anutin also addressed reports of the perpetrator having firearm training, stating that while no official report has been received, as the perpetrator was only 14 years old, normal training would not have been possible. However, he acknowledged the possibility that the youth might have learned about firearms through social media, requiring further investigation. Concerning support and compensation for those affected, the Prime Minister stated that relevant agencies, including the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare, the Ministry of Justice, the Office of the Prime Minister, and the Ministry of Education, are providing assistance. A fund has also been established for victims, and the government is committed to providing the best possible support to the families of the deceased and the injured. Prime Minister Anutin affirmed that the perpetrator decided to end his own life and was not pressured or coerced by officials. Source: INN News