Pattaya —
A 23-year-old murder suspect, his mom, and girlfriend are being detained by Nongprue police after they colluded to murder a Pattaya-based Bolt driver and burn his body this past weekend.
First our previous story:
Our previous story:
23-year-old Mr. Thiraporn Somkham, his 51-year-old mother, Mrs. Elijah (family name withheld), and his 16-year-old girlfriend (name withheld) are currently detained at the Nongprue Police Station as of January 16th, 2024.
The three were apprehended on Monday in connection with a recent fatal stabbing and the subsequent burning of the body of a ride-sharing Bolt driver, Mr. Thanathip Watthaisong. The 31-year-old Thai driver had an argument with Mr. Thiraporn after he refused to pay the ride fare, leading to Mr. Thiraporn fatally stabbing Mr. Thanathip in the chest.
Mr. Thiraporn’s mother became involved in this gruesome crime after her son confessed to the police that he called her after stabbing the victim asking for advice, and then decided to burn the body, allegedly following his mother’s instructions.
His girlfriend, a minor, also helped the suspect get rid of the body, as stated by Nongprue police, although it was unclear what her exact role was.
According to The Pattaya News reporters, the three suspects appeared visibly stressed during the fingerprint identification process and questioning at the police station around 9:30 AM on January 16th. They also refused to answer reporters’ inquiries.
Meanwhile, the younger brother of Mr. Thiraporn (name withheld) arrived at the station to visit his mother and brother but was denied entry. When speaking with the press, the man expressed deep shock and disbelief upon learning of Mr. Thiraporn’s involvement in such a violent incident.
The younger brother stated that Mr. Thiraporn is typically reserved and quiet. He also enjoys video games, while his mother is known for her kindness and community involvement.
However, after a relationship breakup with his previous girlfriend, Mr. Thiraporn’s behavior reportedly shifted. He exhibited signs of depression, expressed suicidal thoughts on several occasions, and struggled financially. Allegedly, he kept these issues from most of his family, as narrated by the brother.
The suspect’s brother extended his deepest apologies to the victim’s family and offered to provide full support to the victim’s child.
According to the Nongprue police, the three suspects have been charged for murder, stealing the deceased’s car, and attempting to dispose of the body. These charges carry various penalties ranging but with the strong chance of life imprisonment, according to Nongprue police. However, since the girlfriend is a minor, she is expected to face juvenile charges.
