PATTAYA, Thailand — A violent road rage incident late Wednesday night left a bus driver with severe injuries, prompting an investigation by local authorities. Surasak Krommangkorn, 59, reported being assaulted by the driver of a van who followed him closely before launching an attack.
The confrontation unfolded around 10 p.m. in North Pattaya Soi 2, near a tour bus depot. Krommangkorn, who drives for a private bus company, had just dropped off passengers at the Thepprasit terminal. He described the harrowing experience to police, detailing how he was repeatedly honked at by the van as he navigated the narrow street.
After pulling over to the side, Krommangkorn was confronted by a man in his early 30s who accused him of cutting him off. Without warning, the aggressive driver forced open the bus door and began to strike Krommangkorn. Despite his attempts to defend himself, the bus driver, overpowered by the assailant, suffered a split scalp, wounds requiring stitches on his forehead, and bruises across his face and body.
Following the attack, the van driver fled the scene, leaving Krommangkorn to seek medical attention for his injuries. Officers at Pattaya Police Station recorded his complaint and have begun reviewing nearby CCTV footage as part of their investigation to apprehend the suspect.
Authorities emphasize the need for increased awareness around road safety, particularly in areas with high traffic like Pattaya’s bustling streets. The incident underscores rising concerns over road rage incidents in the region, where narrow lanes and heavy vehicles often lead to heightened tensions among drivers, especially during night hours.
This alarming episode has reignited discussions about how to prevent such violent encounters, advocating for driver education and a more community-driven approach to handling road disputes. Police are urging motorists to practice patience and avoid escalating tensions that can lead to dangerous confrontations on the road.