LAMPANG, THAILAND – A drunken village assistant caused a fatal traffic accident, killing a two-year-old child and severely injuring the mother.
Herr Dech, an assistant to the village headman, drove under the influence of alcohol and caused a devastating collision. His vehicle struck two-year-old Nong Termfun and her mother, who was immediately and severely injured. The child succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The mother, Mrs. May, sustained a double fracture to her leg and is currently receiving treatment at Lampang Hospital. Another individual’s white car was also damaged in the incident.
A role model who was not
District Chief Thanarat Saithep of Mueang Lampang expressed strong disapproval. He stated that an administrative official must strictly adhere to laws and serve as a good role model for society. Herr Dech, however, acted negligently and had an alcohol level exceeding the legal limit.
On June 15, 2026, the district chief submitted an urgent letter to the Governor of Lampang Province. In it, he requested the dismissal of the assistant, citing Paragraph 18 in conjunction with Paragraph 14 of the Local Administration Act of 1914.
Mother demands 10 million – and her rights
Police Lieutenant Colonel Wichian Jaisangklang interviewed the severely injured mother at the hospital. Mrs. May is demanding 10 million Baht in damages. The owner of the white car is seeking 500,000 Baht for the damage to his vehicle.
“What we are demanding is nothing compared to the loss of our child, whom we waited our whole lives for,” the mother stated. Her condition and that of her husband would never return to normal. She strictly refuses any negotiations with the driver responsible for the accident.
Visits prohibited – mother blocks hospital room
Mrs. May had the door to her private room at the hospital barred and a sign reading “Visits prohibited” posted. Only very close confidants are being granted access.
Doctors have postponed the planned surgery until tomorrow. The body of Nong Termfun remains at Wat Si Koet Temple pending cremation. The mother wishes to take her final farewell only after being discharged from the hospital.
A butterfly that does not leave
Father Duke reported that a butterfly has been flying incessantly in the hospital room since his wife was admitted. At night, it rests at the head of the bed, and during the day, it circles the room.
For the father, it is more than just an insect: “It came with us from the temple. I believe it is Nong Termfun, watching over his mother.” The butterfly has not left the room.
Police file serious charges
Investigators at the Mueang Lampang Police Station have filed charges against Herr Dech. He faces accusations of drunk driving resulting in death, grievous bodily harm, and property damage.
The district’s investigation committee has submitted its full report. The district views the assistant’s dismissal as unavoidable, and the case will now be forwarded to the governor for a final decision.