Hat Yai (Thailand), Feb 11: A gunman opened fire at Patongprathankiriwat School in Hat Yai district, Songkhla Province in southern Thailand on Wednesday afternoon, sparking a frightening incident that left at least three people injured and hostages taken during the attack, according to Thai officials.
The assailant, identified by local authorities as an 18-year-old male, entered the school armed with a firearm and opened fire inside the campus, prompting an immediate response from police and emergency services.
Hostages Taken, Police Respond
Initial reports indicated that the gunman took teachers and students hostage after storming into the school building. Security forces quickly surrounded the campus and launched a tactical operation to bring the situation under control.
Local administration sources confirmed that the incident was treated as an active shooter situation, and officers from various law enforcement units were deployed to the school to negotiate and secure the release of hostages.
Gunman Detained and Hostages Freed
In a positive turn, authorities later announced that the gunman was detained by police and that all hostages — students and teachers — were safely freed from the school. The swift action by Thai law enforcement prevented further escalation and potentially more serious casualties.
At least three people were injured during the incident, though details on their identities and the extent of their injuries have not yet been fully disclosed by officials.
Community in Shock, Students Evacuated
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and fear as students and staff fled the school grounds once shots were fired. Parents and relatives gathered near the perimeter, anxious for news of their loved ones, while rescue teams worked to evacuate students and escort them to safety.
Local authorities have not yet provided a comprehensive breakdown of the injured individuals, but emergency medical teams were seen transporting the wounded to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Motive Under Investigation
Officials are investigating the motive behind the shooting, including whether it was a targeted attack or a random act of violence. At the time of reporting, no official motive had been publicly announced.
Gun violence has periodically surfaced in Thailand, though incidents involving schools are particularly rare and cause deep concern within local communities and nationwide. The incident is drawing comparisons to past violent episodes in the country, including the notorious 2022 Nong Bua Lamphu massacre in northern Thailand, where dozens were killed at a nursery in Uthai Sawan.
Wider Security and Public Response
Thai authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety and are enhancing security measures at schools and other public institutions in the aftermath of the attack. Officials have urged calm and cooperation from the public as the investigation continues.
The Hat Yai school shooting has shocked communities in Songkhla and beyond, renewed concerns about access to firearms and school safety, and prompted discussions on preventive measures to protect students, teachers and staff in educational environments.