A violent altercation inside a barbershop in Nonthaburi on April 17, 2026 left one man dead and another injured, before tensions spilled onto the streets, triggering chaos involving more than 100 people.
Police from Pak Kret Police Station, together with rescue workers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, rushed to the scene following reports of a fatal fight at a salon along Sukha Prachasan 3 Road. Forensic experts were also called in to examine the scene and assist with the investigation.
Authorities discovered the body of 26-year-old Thiti lying face down at the back of the shop. His right hand was still clutching a knife believed to have been used during the confrontation. The shop owner, 58-year-old Jirawat, was found injured with multiple stab wounds.
During initial questioning, Jirawat told police that the victim had been a customer who asked to borrow 20,000 baht. After being refused, the situation escalated when the victim allegedly pulled out a knife and pursued him to the rear of the shop. Fearing for his life, he fought back, grappling with the victim before grabbing a pestle and striking him repeatedly on the head until he became unresponsive.
Police said investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of death, with the body sent for post-mortem examination. The case has raised broader concerns over disputes escalating into deadly violence in everyday settings.
The incident quickly drew a large crowd of more than 100 friends and relatives of the deceased, who gathered outside the premises claiming the situation had been staged and suspecting foul play. In a tense standoff, the group attempted to force their way into the shop but were held back by police and rescue personnel awaiting forensic clearance.
Clashes soon broke out between the crowd and rescue workers, resulting in three volunteers being injured. One was struck in the face with a bottle, another suffered a head injury, while a third was beaten by several individuals. A volunteer ambulance was also vandalised, with its windows smashed during the unrest.
Later that night at around 11pm, the injured rescue workers lodged reports at the police station. However, tensions flared again when about 30 friends of the deceased followed them there, leading to another confrontation.
Police Superintendent Adirek Thongkamkaew intervened by calling both parties for discussions, eventually diffusing the situation. The deceased’s friends later apologised for their actions, admitting their anger stemmed from fears that justice might not be served.
Authorities continue to investigate both the fatal incident and the subsequent violence, as the case draws attention to public reaction and safety concerns surrounding high-emotion crime scenes.
