CHAIYAPHUM, Thailand – A hospital director in Chaiyaphum Province is facing legal action after drunkenly driving a white Toyota Fortuner onto a sidewalk and crashing into two television production assistants, leaving both with serious injuries. The driver initially refused a breathalyzer test and attempted to dilute evidence by drinking water and fermented milk before finally testing over the legal alcohol limit.
Security footage from a restaurant in Mueang District captured the incident, showing the vehicle suddenly mounting the pavement and striking two men, scattering equipment and personal belongings. The crash occurred around 10:00 PM April 30.
The victims, Mr. Aes, 33, and Mr. Thotsawat, 35, were found writhing in pain at the scene. Both are assistant photographers for a major television channel.
The vehicle involved had markings identifying it as belonging to the Ministry of Public Health. Inside was Dr. Phuttha, the director of a local hospital. Witnesses reported that he had just left a nearby restaurant before the incident occurred.
Police Captain Kanthee Phiansungnoen, the case investigator at Chaiyaphum City Police Station, responded to the scene and documented the incident. He also reviewed CCTV footage from surrounding areas to determine the exact cause.
When police asked the suspect to submit to a breathalyzer test, he delayed compliance by drinking water, going to the restroom, and consuming fermented milk provided by a friend. Over an hour later, he finally agreed to the test, which measured 115 mg% of alcohol in his breath, exceeding Thailand’s legal limit of 50 mg%.
The suspect has been charged with driving under the influence causing serious injury, and reckless driving resulting in harm to others, and will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. (TNA)
