General
Chiang Mai Coffee Shop Destroyed in Early Morning Vehicle Collision
A local coffee shop and restaurant in Chiang Mai suffered extensive damage after being struck by a pickup truck in the early hours of August 8, 2026.
On the morning of August 8, 2026, Mr. Warakorn, the owner of 'Thong Phan Bai Coffee' and 'Mei Jong Chicken Rice' in Mae Hia, Chiang Mai, discovered his business premises severely damaged. According to Khaosod Online Thailand, the shop, located on the Somphot 700 Pi Road, was struck by a pickup truck during the night.
Police Lieutenant Thanapong Napatsawitsawat of the Chiang Mai City Police Station reported that the incident occurred at approximately 1:30 AM. Authorities arrived to find a grey Ford pickup truck with significant front-end damage and a flat tire. The driver, identified as 48-year-old Mr. Phattharanai, sustained minor injuries and was taken into custody for questioning regarding the cause of the accident.
The collision caused widespread destruction, including the collapse of steel rolling doors, glass panels, walls, and ceilings, alongside the loss of coffee equipment and display cabinets. The owner estimated the total damages to be approximately one million baht, rendering the shop unable to operate.
For residents and travelers in the area, this incident highlights the potential for traffic-related disruptions on major thoroughfares like Somphot 700 Pi Road. While the police have secured the vehicle and are conducting an investigation, the specific circumstances leading to the driver losing control remain to be confirmed through the ongoing official inquiry.