Politics
Bang Bua Thong Shooting Range Temporarily Closed Following Fatal Incident
The Deputy Minister of Interior has ordered a 30-day closure of a shooting range in Nonthaburi after a fatal incident involving a 36-year-old man.
On August 18, 2026, a 36-year-old man suffering from depression died by suicide at a shooting range on Kanchanaphisek Road in Bang Bua Thong, Nonthaburi. Following the incident, Deputy Minister of Interior Jased Thai-set and Nonthaburi Deputy Governor Apichai Akamsri visited the site to inspect safety protocols and licensing.
According to Khaosod Online, the Deputy Minister confirmed that the facility’s operating licenses and the firearm used in the incident were legally compliant. However, the range has been ordered to close for 30 days while authorities conduct a thorough review of its operations. The family of the deceased has reportedly stated they have no concerns regarding the cause of death.
For residents and visitors, this event highlights ongoing discussions regarding firearm safety regulations in Thailand. Currently, specific entry requirements for shooting ranges are determined by individual operators rather than standardized national law. The Deputy Minister indicated that the government intends to issue an emergency decree to establish stricter, uniform national regulations for shooting range usage in the future. As of now, the specific timeline for these new legal measures remains to be confirmed, and the public awaits further details on how these potential changes will impact access to such facilities.