Ubon Ratchathani: The Air Force Commander has expressed his condolences to the family of a Private First Class who died from a gunshot wound during a duty assignment at Wing 21. The incident has prompted the establishment of an investigation committee, with the Air Force providing full support to the police in gathering evidence.
According to Thai News Agency, Air Chief Marshal Prapas Sonjai, the Air Force spokesperson, detailed the occurrence, which took place on March 23 at 10:00 a.m. A gun accidentally discharged while a conscripted soldier was on duty, leading to the fatal injury of Private First Class Kritsada Thiamthat. The soldier, who was part of the Air Defense Company, Air Force Aviation Battalion, Wing 21, succumbed to his injuries thereafter.
On March 24, Wing 21 officials met with the family of the deceased to inform them of the accident and express their condolences. Air Chief Marshal Panphakdi Phatthanakul, the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force, received a report of the incident and also conveyed his condolences. He has directed efforts to assist the family of Private First Class Kritsada and ensure their rights are fully respected.
The commander of Wing 21 notified the Ubon Ratchathani City Police Station to inspect the scene and report back to Air Force leadership. A committee has been established to thoroughly investigate the incident, with a commitment to cooperate fully with police investigations to uncover additional evidence.
On March 25, representatives from the Air Force traveled to Surin Province to attend the funeral rites and offer support to the family of Private First Class Kritsada. On March 26, Wing 21 organized an honor guard for the cremation ceremony and has continued to provide assistance to the family.