Train shooting spree claims one, injures six

One person died and six others were injured. Ekalak Pudpong, 21, was arrested on the scene.

"The suspect is still unable to speak coherently," Ron Phibun Police Station superintendent Colonel Pasapon Tawichsri said yesterday.

Ekalak was put through a urine test to see if he had abused any substances. Results were not out at press time.

According to available information, the ranger who was based in Narathiwat province boarded a Bangkok-bound train to visit his family in Chumphon. While the train was moving through Nakhon Si Thammarat's Ron Phibun district at around 10pm on Tuesday, Ekalak went on a shooting spree.

Witnesses say Ekalak was returning from the toilet when he suddenly pulled out a gun and opened fire on passengers.

Najjawa Sani, a 20-year-old nursing student, was killed immediately, while Sabiya Sayoh, 22; Kama Bibing, 23; Abdullah Yimadiloj, 25; and Pongsakorn Anusit, 21; were severely injured. Pongsakorn was a member of the train catering staff. A few other passengers received minor injuries.

Witnesses said an on-duty policeman on the train subdued and arrested Ekalak.