A 37-year-old Buddhist monk has died after being electrocuted while attempting to rescue a dog trapped on a barbed wire fence in Thailand.
The victim, identified as Phra Tom, reportedly came into contact with a live electric current without realising the fence had become electrified due to a fault in a nearby electricity pole.
According to Thai media outlet Naewna, the incident occurred on July 1 in Pathum Ratchawongsa district, Amnat Charoen province.
Phra Tom, who was from Wat Nong Nam Khun temple, was carrying out his morning alms round when he heard a dog barking in distress.
He later found the animal entangled in a barbed wire fence by the roadside and attempted to free it using his bare hands.
Unbeknownst to him, high-voltage electricity was flowing through the fence due to damage at a nearby power pole.
The monk collapsed instantly after touching the wire with both hands, believed to have been fatally electrocuted at the scene.
Members of the public rushed to assist and contacted emergency services, and the victim was later taken to Pathum Ratchawongsa Hospital.
However, he was pronounced dead upon arrival after suffering severe burn injuries consistent with electrical shock.
Medical findings confirmed acute heart failure caused by high-voltage current, with no signs of foul play or other injuries.
Following the tragedy, police in Amnat Charoen issued a safety warning, highlighting increased risks of electrical hazards during the rainy season due to wet and humid conditions.
Residents have been advised to avoid damaged electrical equipment, stay away from metal fences near power poles, and report any suspected electrical faults to authorities immediately.
