A 14-year-old student opened fire at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in the Bang Kruai district of Nonthaburi province, on the northwestern outskirts of Bangkok, on Friday, 7 August, leaving eight people dead — including the gunman and his grandparents — and more than 30 others injured, with nine in critical condition. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed the toll at the scene on Friday afternoon, calling it an incident that must never be allowed to recur.

How the Attack Unfolded

Local police were alerted at around 10 am local time after gunshots rang out across the school campus. A witness described the gunman as wearing a purple tracksuit and firing dozens of rounds. Video footage circulated by Thai media captured continuous gunfire throughout the school grounds.

Investigators believe the alleged shooter killed his grandparents at their home before proceeding to the school. Police discovered the bodies of both grandparents at the residence, and the sequence of events points to the home attack occurring first, according to authorities.

The Weapon and Evidence Found

A handgun was recovered at the school, which authorities said reportedly belonged to the suspect's grandfather. A large quantity of ammunition was also found in the alleged shooter's bag. Investigators examining the suspect's computer found searches related to an American school shooting case, suggesting the attack was premeditated.

A friend of the gunman told authorities that the teenager had been under significant pressure in recent weeks, had made thorough preparations before the shooting, and had even posted photographs of the weapon on social media prior to the attack.

What the Prime Minister Said

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, speaking to media at the scene, said the suspected motive was excessive academic pressure, noting that the boy's grandparents had been very strict about his studies. Anutin stressed that the government would pursue stricter gun control measures and that relevant departments must strengthen oversight of gun ownership.

'No one is allowed to carry guns into public places unless performing official duties,' Anutin said, outlining an immediate policy direction in the wake of the tragedy.

Broader Context and What Comes Next

The shooting has reignited debate in Thailand over access to firearms and the mental health pressures faced by school-age children. This comes amid growing global concern about the influence of high-profile foreign mass-shooting cases on vulnerable young individuals — a pattern investigators say may have been a factor here.

Thai authorities are expected to tighten gun ownership regulations and review school safety protocols in the weeks ahead, as the government faces pressure to translate Anutin's on-site remarks into concrete legislative action.