BANGKOK, Thailand – A 29-year-old American man was arrested after allegedly stealing from a convenience store in Bangkok’s Suea Pa Road area and injuring a police officer with a box cutter while trying to escape on Aug. 22.
The incident began at about 9 a.m. when the suspect allegedly stole items from a convenience store in Samphanthawong district before fleeing toward Yaowarat Road. Store employees and members of the public followed him, with witnesses reporting that he was carrying a box cutter. Police officer Lt. Pol. Lt. Prasarn Somkhaney, a traffic officer from Phra Ratchawang Police Station, happened to be patrolling the area and moved in to stop the suspect. The officer was injured around the neck by the box cutter and was taken to Klang Hospital. He was later reported to be safe.
Police launched a search and eventually found the suspect hiding in a temporary shelter near Suan Mali Circle. Officers arrested him and recovered a box cutter believed to have been used in the attack. The suspect was identified as Alexander Troy Lopez, 29, an American national. Police said he gave unclear answers during questioning and did not cooperate, prompting officers to bring in Tourist Police interpreters to assist in English and Spanish.
An initial urine test reportedly detected methamphetamine, although police said blood tests and medical confirmation would be required before taking further action on any drug-related offence.
Police initially charged Lopez with attempted murder of an officer while on duty and an offence related to robbery. Investigators are continuing to check his background, immigration status and CCTV footage while questioning witnesses and gathering further evidence. Police said the injured officer was in stable condition. (TNA)
