Safety
Authorities Investigate Death of 7-Year-Old Novice Monk in Lampang
Officials in Lampang have seized the body of a 7-year-old novice monk for an autopsy after he drowned in a temple pond without the incident being reported to police.
On September 18, 2026, provincial officials, police, and representatives from the National Office of Buddhism in Lampang province intervened at a temple in Ko Kha district to investigate the death of a 7-year-old novice monk of Myanmar nationality. According to Khaosod Online, the child drowned in a temple pond.
Local authorities were alerted to the situation after discovering that the temple had failed to notify police or administrative officials regarding the fatality. Instead, the temple staff proceeded to place the boy’s body in a coffin and began funeral rites on the evening of September 17.
Upon arrival, officials seized the body and transferred it to Lampang Hospital for a forensic autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. While the initial account suggests the boy was playing near the water—as evidenced by shoes found at the edge of the pond—the lack of official reporting has prompted a formal investigation.
For residents and visitors, this incident highlights the importance of reporting accidents to local authorities immediately, regardless of the setting. The investigation remains ongoing, and the public is awaiting the results of the forensic examination to confirm whether the drowning was accidental or if other factors were involved.
