Tragic Crash Claims Nine Buddhist Monks During Northern Thailand Pilgrimage

Mon Sep 14 2026 11:17:40 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A pickup truck driven by an 11-year-old child smashed a procession of monks in Mukdahan, leaving nine dead and many wounded.

In a shocking incident, a pickup truck was taken over by an 11-year-old boy who lost control on a north‑eastern Thai road, killing nine monks and injuring several others. The child, carrying special needs, was driving his parents’ vehicle without permission. Authorities have seized the truck for forensic examination while the monks’ graves are being respected. The provincial governor urges stricter road‑safety measures after the loss of life, and the hospital appeals for blood donations for severely injured monks.

Tragic Crash Claims Nine Buddhist Monks During Northern Thailand Pilgrimage

A pickup truck driven by an 11‑year‑old child crashed into a group of monks marching in Mukdahan province, taking the lives of nine and leaving several more wounded.

Truck wrecked against a procession of monks — Truck wrecked against the side of the road during the accident.

The accident occurred on a rural road as monks walked their pilgrimage. Video footage shows the vehicle smashed on the roadside, sprouting shattered beams and spreading the saffron robes of the monks.

Police said the boy had taken the parents’ vehicle without consent and lost control, striking the procession of 35 monks and five lay followers. Five monks died on the spot; a further four later in hospital. Three remain in critical condition.

Major General Pairoj Thaiphutsa reported that the boy, known to have special needs, is being looked after by local officials. Authorities are examining the truck to determine the exact cause of the crash.

The case has prompted a call from provincial governor Worayan Bunnarat for stronger road‑safety enforcement, saying the tragedy should serve as a warning for all drivers and parents.

Mukdahan Hospital is seeking blood donations to aid severely injured monks, while the community mourns the loss of long‑serving spiritual leaders.