A 45-year-old father was struck dead by lightning while working as a hired weed cutter in a sugarcane field in Buriram to earn money to buy a new school uniform for his daughter. His wife revealed her husband disliked being in debt. The district chief provided initial financial assistance.
On 8 May 2026, it was reported that Mr. Sunthorn Kaennin, 45, from Khu Mueang District, Buriram Province, was struck dead by lightning while hired to weed a sugarcane field at Ban Lako, Village No. 6, Don Mon Subdistrict, Satuek District, Buriram. The incident occurred at about 2:00 p.m. on 7 May.
The incident deeply saddened the family and relatives and also distressed local villagers who heard the news. The deceased was known as a diligent man who was urgently working to raise money for expenses before the new school term for his 9-year-old daughter, especially to buy a new school uniform, which was essential.
Recently, Mr. Seksan Chanwongsa, Ban Dan District Chief of Buriram, along with Mrs. Ratchanewan Chanwongsa, Chairwoman of the Ban Dan District Interior Ministry Wives Association, traveled to offer condolences and support to Ms. Mon Wutiya, 48, the deceased’s wife, and their 9-year-old daughter at Wat Pa Ban Samrong, Non Khwang Subdistrict, Ban Dan District, Buriram, where Mr. Sunthorn’s body was laid to rest. They immediately presented 5,000 baht in personal funds after learning that the father had been rushing to earn money to buy a new school uniform for his child before he tragically died.
The Ban Dan district chief said that initial contact has been made with the Satuek district chief, where the incident occurred. Going forward, all relevant agencies will coordinate to provide the family with as much assistance and support as possible since the deceased was the family’s main breadwinner.
He added that every year, village leaders are warned about the dangers of thunderstorms during the early rainy season, as lightning is frequent and unpredictable. Villagers are advised to strictly follow safety measures during storms to protect themselves.
Ms. Mon Wutiya, the deceased’s wife, said her husband disliked owing anyone money. Whenever there were financial needs, he would work hard to earn money himself. She admitted that recently he took every job offered, even if risky, because he wanted to save money for their daughter’s upcoming school term. Unfortunately, he was struck by lightning. She is now uncertain how the family will manage without their main support.
Mr. Amphon Kaennin, 71, the deceased’s father, said he has two children, with Sunthorn being the second. He acknowledged that Sunthorn was hardworking and took on any job offered but never expected his life to end so soon.