At 21:05, search efforts for victims of the "crane falling on train" incident in Sikhiu District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, were suspended due to the terrain and darkness. The latest death toll is 32, with 3 people still missing.
On 14 Jan 2025 GMT+7, updates emerged on the incident where a construction crane from the contractor of the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project, contracts 3-4 for the Lam Takhong-Sikhiu and Kutjik-Khok Kruat sections, fell onto Special Express Train No. 21 as it passed between Nong Nam Khun and Sikhiu stations in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The accident caused numerous injuries and fatalities, and disrupted train services on that route, as previously reported.
After project engineers inspected the site and confirmed the structural stability, the contractor deployed three large cranes to lift the wreckage of the flattened train carriages crushed by the fallen crane. They also removed derailed carriages from the tracks to clear the route for reopening as quickly as possible. Rescue teams from multiple locations mobilized to search for victims inside the second carriage amid the debris and damage.
At 20:30, Anupong Suksamanit, Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, visited and offered encouragement to the injured. He assured government support, stating there would be no concerns over medical expenses as the authorities would cover all treatment costs. Once patients recover, officials will ensure safe transportation back to their homes.
In summary, the train involved had 208 passengers. Thirty-seven disembarked before the accident site, leaving 171 aboard the affected carriages. The most severe damage was to carriages 2 and 3, where the crane fell. So far, 32 fatalities have been confirmed, 64 injured, and 3 remain missing. Rescue workers have been carefully using cutting tools throughout the night.
Regarding the handling of the 32 deceased, Dr. Wichan Kidseen, Provincial Public Health Doctor of Nakhon Ratchasima, stated that 12 victims have been identified. The other 20 bodies suffered severe fire damage, requiring advanced identification processes. All deceased will be transferred to Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, and relatives will be contacted. On compensation, Prime Minister Anutin Virakul, who visited the site, instructed that assistance start at one million baht to support the families of the deceased.
Later, at about 21:30, officials announced the suspension of the search for missing persons and clearing of the accident site. The confirmed death count stands at 32, with 3 still missing, but the search was halted due to the terrain and darkness making conditions unfavorable. Of the deceased, 13 have been positively identified. Further updates will be provided as available.