A group of Buddhist monks behind the Walk for Peace pilgrimage in the United States has expressed its deepest condolences following the deaths of Thai monks in a devastating road accident in northeastern Thailand, saying the tragedy resonates with them on a deeply personal level.
In a statement released after the 2 July accident, the group said it was “deeply saddened” by the news that a vehicle struck a group of monks during their walking pilgrimage in Mukdahan province, killing nine monks and injuring many others. The group also reassured supporters that the monks participating in the US-based Walk for Peace were not involved in the incident and were safe.
“As brothers in the Dhamma, we feel this profound loss deeply in our hearts,” the statement read. The group extended its condolences to Thailand’s Sangha, the families of the deceased and everyone affected, while praying for the departed monks and wishing those injured a full recovery.
The monks said the tragedy brought back memories of their own close call during the Walk for Peace on 19 November 2025 near Dayton, Texas, when a vehicle lost control and veered towards their walking group. They said the incident reminded them how vulnerable monks are while walking long distances in pursuit of peace.
The Walk for Peace pilgrimage began in Texas late last year, with around 20 monks travelling on foot to Washington, DC, to promote peace, mindfulness and loving-kindness. The group said such journeys are never without hardship, citing severe weather, physical exhaustion and the dangers of walking on public roads.
“Every step is an offering — a quiet and steadfast promise to endure adversity so that seeds of peace may be planted across the world,” the monks said, adding that the tragedy also serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of living each moment with mindfulness and compassion.
The statement concluded with a prayer for all beings to be free from suffering and to live in peace, safety and good health.
