Inspectors work inside a burnt-out bus that caught fire while carrying teachers and students from Wat Khao Phraya school, killing at least 23, on the outskirts of Bangkok, Thailand, October 1, 2024. REUTERS/ Chalinee Thirasupa
MindanaoToday.com | At Least 23 Killed in Thai School Bus Fire
BANGKOK — A tragic bus fire in Thailand has claimed the lives of at least 23 people. The bus, carrying more than 40 students and teachers on a field trip, caught fire on the outskirts of Bangkok, police reported on Tuesday.
Forensic science commissioner Trairong Phiwpan confirmed that 23 bodies have been identified, and authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
Sixteen students and three teachers were taken to the hospital, according to Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit.
Images shared online showed thick smoke and flames coming from the bus. Firefighters eventually put out the blaze. Police suspect a spark from a tyre ignited a gas cylinder powering the vehicle, causing the explosion. Some students managed to escape through the windows.
Authorities are looking into possible negligence by the bus company.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her condolences to the victims’ families, especially as the students were from Uthai Thani province, located about 250 kilometers north of Bangkok.
###
