Mae Sai, Thailand – A Toyota Vios crashed directly into a 7‑Eleven convenience store in Mae Sai district early on 24 October, injuring the driver and leaving the shop’s front badly damaged, police and rescue teams said.
Crash turned shop into scene of chaos
At about 06:55 local time the car smashed through the store’s entrance on Ban Pa Muead, Santisuk Soi Long Chim, and came to rest against protective bollards that likely prevented greater damage, witnesses and responders said. No staff or customers were hurt, authorities added.
Emergency teams rescued injured driver
Rescue workers from the Siam Mae Sai Foundation reached the scene quickly and removed the injured motorist, who was taken to Mae Sai Hospital for treatment. Authorities did not immediately disclose the driver’s exact condition.
Eyewitnesses described sudden acceleration
An eyewitness told reporters the vehicle “suddenly shot forward unexpectedly” before breaking through the shop front. The driver later told police that the gear had jammed and that the car went into an uncontrolled forward motion.
Police secured CCTV and began investigations
Mae Sai police secured the store’s surveillance footage and questioned several witnesses. Investigators said they were examining whether a mechanical failure, a driver error, or another factor was to blame.
Medical history and mechanical checks under scrutiny
Police noted the driver had a pre‑existing medical condition, and officials said they would investigate whether this played a role in the incident. They also ordered a full mechanical inspection of the Toyota to test the claim that the gearshift had become stuck.
Operator faces significant property damage
The owner of the 7‑Eleven suffered substantial damage to the shopfront. Authorities said the bollards prevented the vehicle from penetrating further into the store, which likely averted more serious consequences.
Authorities await results before drawing conclusions
Police said they would wait for the mechanical inspection results and medical information from the hospital before completing their official accident report and determining responsibility. The investigation remains ongoing.