The Korat police chief has ordered all stations under his command to closely monitor and care for their personnel's mental well-being following the incident in which a police lieutenant shot his wife dead. The Chok Chai police chief and supervisor described the suspect as disciplined and very dedicated to his work, expressing regret over the future lost due to his impulsive decision.
In the case involving Police Lieutenant Theerapong, Deputy Traffic Sergeant at Chok Chai Police Station, he reportedly used his service firearm to shoot his mother-in-law and wife in front of his wife's fitness center in Nang Rong Subdistrict, Nang Rong District, Buriram Province. The shooting resulted in the wife's death and left the mother-in-law critically injured, as previously reported.
On 18 June 2026, reporter inquiries with Police Colonel Chawal Wongrod, Chief of Chok Chai Police Station, revealed that Lieutenant Theerapong was normally a hardworking individual with good knowledge and very disciplined, earning the respect of colleagues and subordinates. However, he was a quiet person who rarely spoke with others and never shared personal or family problems unless directly asked by supervisors about his well-being.
After his shifts, he would usually return home to his family as usual, and there was no divorce. Preliminary information suggests the cause was family-related, particularly concerning his children, as the lieutenant was very devoted and serious about family matters. Issues might have involved schooling or other related concerns. As his supervisor, I regret and mourn the lost potential of an officer with a promising future who made a grave mistake due to a momentary lapse in judgment. I also urge other subordinates to seek advice from colleagues or supervisors when facing difficulties to find suitable solutions together.
Meanwhile, Police Major General Narongsak Promtha, Commander of the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Police, expressed concern and issued a policy directive to all station chiefs during a meeting at the Sai Thong conference room of the provincial police headquarters. He stated that the incident in Chok Chai District stemmed from personal and family problems of the perpetrator, leading to his decision and the resulting tragedy.
He emphasized and instructed all police station chiefs to strictly supervise and care for their subordinates according to National Police Order No. 1212/2537 concerning the control and supervision of discipline, behavior, and welfare of police officers.
He urged supervisors at all levels to closely oversee their personnel in all matters, including work, personal issues, and debts, encouraging open communication so officers feel comfortable seeking advice. Besides workplace supervision, station chiefs should regularly visit officers' residences, police flats, or housing to genuinely monitor and listen to their problems. If anyone shows signs of distress or abnormal behavior, prompt joint efforts should be made to provide guidance and solutions.
Finally, he reminded all police officers to remain mindful in their lives. While the past cannot be changed, one must be conscious of how to proceed and resolve issues appropriately. He cautioned against making illegal decisions that lead to prosecution, as the resulting harm affects not only the individual but also deeply impacts their parents, children, and family members left behind, Police Major General Narongsak Promtha emphasized at the meeting.