At least five people were killed and two others injured in a mass shooting at a busy food market in Bangkok, Thailand, on Monday, July 28, 2025, with the suspect found dead in what authorities are investigating as a personal dispute turned deadly.
The shooting occurred around 12:38 p.m. local time at Or Tor Kor Market on Phahon Yothin Road in Chatuchak District. First responders discovered three security guards and one woman vendor dead, while two others sustained injuries and were transported to Phyathai Phahol Hospital for treatment.
Police found the 61-year-old suspect dead on a bench near the market shortly after the attack. The suspect, who had previously worked as a security guard at the same market, died by suicide.
“Police are investigating the motive. So far it’s a mass shooting,” Worapat Sukthai, deputy police chief of Bangkok’s Bang Sue district, said.
Investigators believe the motive was personal in nature. The suspect had been involved in a conflict with a co-worker in 2019, during his time working at the market. Authorities are examining whether this past dispute played a role in the deadly attack.
The shooting took place near a collection point established to assist victims of the Thai-Cambodian border conflict, though police have stated the attack was not related to that ongoing situation. No tourists were killed or injured in the incident.
Or Tor Kor Market, situated near the popular Chatuchak market, is well-known among both locals and visitors for its fresh produce and local food offerings. The market typically draws large crowds, particularly during midday hours when vendors and shoppers fill the aisles.
Security camera footage captured the chaotic moments as people scrambled for safety when gunshots rang out. Members of the public were advised to avoid the area until authorities declared it safe. Police cordoned off sections of the market as investigators worked to collect evidence and interview witnesses.
The attack represents one of the deadliest mass shootings in Bangkok in recent years. Tourism serves as a vital economic driver for Thailand, where such violent incidents can significantly impact visitor sentiment. Thai authorities moved quickly to reassure the public that the shooting appeared to be an isolated incident stemming from a personal grievance rather than a broader threat to public safety.
The former security guard’s employment history at the market gave him familiarity with the location’s layout and operations. Investigators are reviewing his work records and speaking with former colleagues to better understand the circumstances that led to the shooting.
The Bang Sue district, where Or Tor Kor Market is located, typically experiences lower crime rates compared to other areas of the sprawling capital city. The market’s position on busy Phahon Yothin Road places it in a high-traffic commercial zone that serves thousands of customers daily.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as shoppers and vendors fled the sound of gunfire. The attack occurred during peak business hours when the market was crowded with people purchasing fresh food and produce for their meals.
Thai police have not released additional details about the specific nature of the 2019 workplace conflict that may have motivated the shooting. Investigators continue to piece together the timeline of events and examine whether there were any warning signs that could have prevented the tragedy.
The swift response by local authorities helped prevent further casualties. Police and emergency medical services arrived at the scene within minutes of receiving reports of the shooting, establishing a secure perimeter and beginning triage of the wounded.
The incident has prompted questions about security measures at public markets throughout Bangkok. Or Tor Kor Market, while employing security personnel, relies primarily on an open layout that allows easy access for customers and vendors alike.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to identify any additional factors that may have contributed to the shooting. The focus remains on understanding the suspect’s state of mind and whether he had made any threats or exhibited concerning behavior in the days or weeks leading up to the attack.
