KALASIN, Thailand – A passenger van carrying 14 people, including the driver, overturned and caught fire in a fiery early-morning crash on the Kalasin–Mukdahan four-lane highway on August 18, killing two passengers and injuring 12 others. The crash occurred at about 5:20 a.m. near Ban Khok Lam in Roi Et province, close to the border with Kuchinarai district in Kalasin. Police and emergency teams were alerted after the van reportedly left the roadway, overturned and quickly became engulfed in flames. The van, registered in Bangkok, was carrying passengers from Laos who had travelled from Bangkok at about 9 p.m. the previous evening. They were heading to Mukdahan to renew permits before continuing their journey back to Laos.
Emergency responders from local rescue teams rushed to the scene, extinguished the fire and removed survivors from the wreckage. The vehicle was severely damaged by the blaze. Twelve injured passengers were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Several suffered burns or other injuries, while others were treated for less serious injuries and released. Two passengers died in the crash. Authorities initially identified both victims only as female passengers, with their identities still being verified. Police at Phon Thong Police Station carried out examinations of the deceased.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, including why the van left the roadway and overturned before the fire broke out. The incident highlights the dangers faced by passengers travelling long distances overnight, particularly during the early-morning hours when fatigue can increase the risk of serious road accidents.
