A married couple from Ayutthaya were found dead inside a car that had been parked at a petrol station in Nakhon Ratchasima for several days, prompting police to search for their relatives.
Police from Sikhiu Police Station received a report at about 11.20am on Wednesday after a witness noticed an unusual smell coming from a white Honda Accord parked at a petrol station in Buakhao, Sikhiu district.
Officers arrived with forensic personnel and volunteers from Hook 31 Nakhon Ratchasima. The car was found with its engine switched off and doors locked.
Rescue workers opened the vehicle before police and forensic officers examined the scene.
Two bodies were found inside. They were identified as 53-year-old Suriya, who was in the driver’s seat, and 48-year-old Rachadar, who was in the passenger area. Both were residents of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province.
Police also found a charcoal brazier on the front passenger seat and a bag of charcoal near the driver’s side.
Witnesses told police that the vehicle had been parked at the petrol station since Sunday, or possibly earlier. No one reportedly saw anyone leave the car during that time.
The bodies were discovered after a witness disposing of rubbish nearby noticed a strong smell and saw what appeared to be bodily fluid leaking from the vehicle. The witness then alerted police.
Police have yet to determine the cause of death and are examining evidence from the vehicle, along with CCTV footage from the petrol station.
The bodies have been sent to Maharaj Nakorn Ratchasima Hospital for detailed post-mortem examinations to determine the cause of death and how long the couple had been deceased.
Police are also gathering information about the couple and working to locate and notify their relatives before further legal action is taken.
