11-Year-Old Drives Stolen Truck Into Buddhist Monks' Procession in Thailand, Killing Eight

An 11-year-old boy in Mukdahan, northeastern Thailand, stole his parents' pickup truck and crashed into a traditional procession of Buddhist monks on July 2, 2026. The truck veered off course multiple times in a zigzag pattern before striking the group, killing eight people and injuring at least 14 others. Five monks died at the scene, and three more succumbed to their injuries later in the hospital, where four of the injured remain in serious condition.

The incident was captured by a street camera showing the truck running over the monks, leaving many injured on the road. Local witnesses reported the erratic driving moments before the collision. Police are investigating the circumstances of the crash, and the boy has been detained for questioning. Welfare authorities were also called to the scene.

The procession involved about 35 monks participating in a traditional pilgrimage walk. The tragedy has shocked the local community and raised concerns about child safety and vehicle access. Authorities continue to examine the case as the investigation proceeds.