BANGKOK, Thailand – As Thailand launches its largest Songkran celebration campaign in years, questions about safety are surfacing following a fatal shooting at a Songkran-themed concert event in Bangkok’s Ladprao district. Despite assurances from authorities, the tragedy has cast a shadow over what is promoted as a time of joy, unity, and cultural pride.
The incident occurred around 12:20 AM on April 6, in the parking lot of a popular mall near the “Khot Piak” (Soaking Wet) concert. The victim, 36-year-old Jaturawit “Top”, owner of a Romklao-area bar, was shot twice in the chest and abdomen with a .38-caliber revolver. He was rushed to Vejthani Hospital but later died from his injuries.
Police responded quickly and arrested the suspect, 27-year-old Kittiphum, who was found hiding in a white Toyota Cross just 10 meters from the crime scene. Inside the car, officers recovered a homemade .38 revolver, five spent casings, and one live round. The suspect had a head wound from the altercation.
According to the investigation, the violence erupted from a dispute between two women—each accompanying different groups—over a minor physical bump while leaving the venue. Both parties were reportedly intoxicated. When an apology was deemed insufficient, the argument escalated. Kittiphum confessed to retrieving his weapon after being struck on the head and initially fired a warning shot before fatally shooting the victim during the chaos.
Kittiphum told police he works with his mother selling noodles and had bought the illegal firearm from a private group chat for 20,000 baht.
In response, the event organizer announced the immediate cancellation of the final day of the festival, stating the incident occurred outside of the controlled concert area and after the program had concluded. “We did everything possible to ensure safety within the event,” organizers posted on Facebook, thanking the police for swiftly apprehending the suspect.
Broader Safety Concerns During Songkran
This tragedy comes just as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra launched the 2025 Songkran campaign under the theme “Once in a Lifetime: Experience Songkran in Thailand.” The nationwide celebration promotes traditional values, family unity, and tourism, with a heavy emphasis on safety, culture, and environmental awareness.
However, the fatal shooting raises renewed concerns over alcohol-related violence and public safety during large-scale festivals, especially at night events where security may be harder to control once crowds disperse.
As Songkran festivities officially kick off from April 11 to 17, authorities are ramping up efforts to ensure safety through increased police presence, stricter alcohol checks, and community awareness campaigns. Nonetheless, this incident underscores the importance of vigilance and stronger enforcement in preventing senseless violence.
