The Army clarifies facts concerning a soldier from the 2nd Artillery Regiment, King's Guard, who lost consciousness and died. Medical examination indicates the cause was sudden cardiac arrest since late last year. It is believed the family understands the situation.
On 22 Feb 2026 at the Army Headquarters, Major General Winthai Suwaree, Army spokesperson, stated that regarding the public issue of Private Phetcharat Kamlangying, assigned to the 2nd Artillery Regiment, King's Guard, at Phrom Yothi Camp, Prachinburi Province, who lost consciousness while detained in the 12th Military Circle Prison. Several fellow detained soldiers discovered the incident. The unit promptly sent him to Chakraphong Camp Hospital, where he later died. Doctors confirmed the death was due to heart failure and affirmed there were no signs of physical abuse.
However, since prior to the incident Private Phetcharat had heart failure and had been detained with many other soldiers for about ten days within the unit’s detention area, the unit conducted a thorough investigation, especially to rule out any fights during those ten days. The investigation concluded there was no fighting or harm inflicted by fellow detained soldiers.
The soldier’s unit and the First Army Area provided details that Private Phetcharat was detained for disciplinary reasons related to absence without leave. On the day of the incident, 10 Nov 2025, at approximately 18:07, fellow detainees confirmed he appeared normal. At 18:18, he suddenly lost consciousness and collapsed. Fellow soldiers provided assistance, and the unit sent him to the emergency room at Chakraphong Camp Hospital. Despite medical treatment, he passed away at 19:28.
The autopsy results showed no signs of physical assault, no brain contusions, and no brain hemorrhage. During that period, the unit communicated with the family and relatives to inform them of the facts. The family raised no objections and understood the circumstances. The unit then facilitated funeral arrangements and followed appropriate procedures regarding benefits and customary support.
Major General Winthai also stated that because some individuals have brought this case back to public attention, some members of the public have speculated about the cause of death from various perspectives that may not align with scientific evidence, numerous eyewitness accounts, or legal facts within the official system. Should the family or others feel uneasy or have concerns, the unit is willing to provide details and coordinate with relevant authorities, medical personnel, and many fellow soldiers who were with Private Phetcharat before and during the incident to clarify facts or offer further understanding at any time.
He affirmed that the loss of any personnel is a loss to the Army. Therefore, when a soldier dies, all actions must be conducted fairly, transparently, and straightforwardly.
