Gunman Kills Kindergarten Teacher in Eastern Thailand

A gunman opened fire inside a kindergarten in eastern Thailand on Wednesday, killing a teacher before fleeing the scene. The incident occurred at the Nongplalai Municipal Kindergarten in Chonburi province, approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Bangkok, around 11 a.m. local time.

Authorities confirmed that all 44 children present at the school were evacuated safely, along with three other teachers. The provincial government stated that no students were harmed during the attack.

The shooter is believed to be the victim's husband, according to officials. Police surrounded his accommodation after he fled, and a search operation was underway.

Chonburi Governor Narit Niramaiwong ordered the school to be closed temporarily and directed mental health experts to provide support to students and staff affected by the incident.

The shooting has renewed scrutiny over school safety and gun violence in Thailand. In August, a 14-year-old student killed eight people and injured more than 20 in a shooting at his high school and family home before taking his own life. Earlier this month, another 14-year-old was arrested after firing shots at his school in Kamphaeng Phet province without causing injuries.

Thailand has one of the highest rates of gun ownership in Asia, despite relatively strict firearm laws. While mass shootings remain uncommon, the country has experienced a rise in high-profile attacks in recent years. The national government has ordered a review of gun regulations, including suspending new firearm permits and reassessing existing ones.