Retired Thai marine shoots ex-bully over long-standing grudge about getting buried alive

What goes around, comes around. 

In a recent class reunion with his former classmates, 69-year-old Suthud was shot dead by a classmate he used to bully. 

53 years ago, Suthud was said to have rounded up his entire class to rag on a classmate called Thanapat, going so far as to even bury him alive. Although Thanapat eventually crawled out, he dropped out of school shortly after.

Thanapat, now a retired marine, got in touch with his former classmates once again earlier this year, and the group gathered for a reunion on Aug 24, amongst which included Suthud. They had been drinking and reminiscing about the past when Thanapat was reminded about the incident.

During police investigations, Thanapat mentioned that he approached Suthud after the party to ask for an apology in the hopes of seeking closure. Not only did Suthud refuse, but the man also swore at him.

Enraged, Thanapat quickly made his way back to his car, pulled out a firearm and shot Suthid in the stomach.

According to Thai publication Sanook, the situation arose as Thanapat had acted brashly in a blind fury due to excessive alcohol consumption.

Thanapat turned himself in along with his firearms and bullets afterwards.

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He confessed that he had not actually meant to kill Suthud. Thinking that Suthud would not die, Thanapat left the crime scene to stay with a friend. He only realised the gravity of the situation after the cops contacted his friends.

When the interrogation was over, he lit a joss stick in front of Suthud's photo and prayed for forgiveness.

As of now, Thanapat has been released on a temporary bail while the police continue their investigations. He will be required to return for further questioning.

rainercheung@asiaone.com