A Thai police officer accused of fatally shooting his wife outside a fitness centre in Buriram province has claimed that jealousy and suspicions of an affair were behind the deadly incident.
Police Captain Teerapong allegedly opened fire outside a fitness centre in Nang Rong district on June 17, killing his 37-year-old wife, Treeraya, and injuring her 58-year-old mother, Mantana.
The dramatic incident ended when several fitness trainers at the scene intervened, preventing the officer from escaping and restraining him until authorities arrived.
The trainers’ actions quickly gained attention online, with many social media users praising their bravery in confronting an armed suspect.
According to local reports, Teerapong and Treeraya shared two children. Although the couple had reportedly been living separately for several years, they had not legally divorced.
Reports indicated that the accused had allegedly refused to sign divorce papers despite the couple’s separation.
Treeraya was later identified as the owner of the fitness centre where the shooting occurred and was described as a well-known and respected member of the local community.
Initial reports suggested that disputes over assets and child custody may have been factors contributing to tensions between the couple.
However, during a brief interview with reporters on June 18, Teerapong rejected those claims and insisted that his actions were driven by suspicions that his wife was involved in a relationship with a fitness trainer.
When questioned further about the alleged affair, the accused declined to provide additional details.
The trainer believed to be at the centre of the allegations was among those who helped restrain Teerapong after the shooting.
Local media reported that the trainer declined requests for interviews, while colleagues at the fitness centre said they had never witnessed any romantic relationship between Treeraya and any member of staff.
Treeraya’s aunt also dismissed the allegations, insisting that her niece was not involved with anyone at the fitness centre.
According to the aunt, Treeraya had sought a divorce because of ongoing marital issues, including what she described as controlling behaviour by the accused.
She claimed the couple had experienced long-standing disagreements and that the victim wanted to end the marriage due to personal conflicts.
Authorities have since charged Teerapong with intentional homicide and attempted murder.
Following his arrest, the officer was brought before a court for a remand hearing.
Reports indicate that the court rejected his application for bail due to the seriousness of the charges and his position as a serving police officer.
The case has sparked widespread public discussion in Thailand, particularly over domestic violence, relationship disputes and the actions of the fitness trainers who intervened to stop the suspect from fleeing.
