Three Teens Killed During Bangkok Police Chase

BANGKOK — Three teens died in a motorcycle wreck after police officers giving chase collided with them early Sunday morning.

Police Lance Cpl. Yannapat Preechasonthikul, 25, said he and a colleague at Phetkasem Police Station spotted a group of teens riding 10 motorcycles along Bang Khae Road, some of whom lacked helmets and license plates on their bikes.

When Yannapat and his partner, 25-year-old Lance Cpl. Pipatporn Kaoeian ordered them to stop, the teens sped up and attempted to flee, he said. The two officers gave chase, and at one point their motorcycle collided into one carrying two teen boys and one teen girl, sending it crashing and killing all three.

Those killed were Wanlop Khotpali, 17; Asada Chandahan, 14; and one girl, 18-year-old Benjamas Baikhaew.

Advertisement

The officers involved said it was an accident. Yannapat broke his shoulder and nose while officer Pipatporn suffered broken teeth and neck trauma. They were all taken to Phetkasem 2 Hospital after the crash.

Advertisement

Police Lt. Col. Pairote Traitham said the two officers under his supervision insist they were following procedures. He believed the teens died because they were not wearing helmets.

No criminal complaint has been filed in the case. Pairote said he has ordered an investigation into whether the officers used excessive force.

Friends of three teens killed during a police chase gathered in front of Phetkasem 2 Hospital on Sunday in Bangkok.
Friends of three teens killed during a police chase gathered in front of Phetkasem 2 Hospital on Sunday in Bangkok.