NAKHON RATCHASIMA – An 18-year-old man was stabbed to death during a balloon festival in the Hua Thale subdistrict in the early hours of Monday, September 22. Police were alerted to the incident at 12:10 a.m. and discovered the victim, identified only as Mr. A, suffering from three stab wounds to his torso. Despite being rushed to Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival, Khaosod reported.

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The violent altercation occurred on the final night of the popular festival, which featured a walking street, riverside music, and giant balloons. According to witness accounts and surveillance footage, the victim and his girlfriend were approaching the festival entrance near a wastewater treatment pond when they were confronted by three men believed to be between 25 and 30 years old. The suspects allegedly assaulted Mr. A with punches, kicks, and a sharp weapon. Before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle, one of the assailants was heard saying, “You’re brave, don’t mess with my younger sibling.”

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Emergency responders from the Sawang Metta Korat Foundation administered CPR at the scene before transporting the critically injured young man to the hospital. Police officials have confirmed that the perpetrators have been identified and that an active manhunt is underway to apprehend them for questioning and subsequent legal action. The brazen nature of the attack at a crowded public event has raised significant concerns regarding safety measures at large-scale gatherings.

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Investigators are continuing to review available video footage and gather eyewitness testimonies to reconstruct the precise sequence of events and compile evidence for prosecution. The case remains under active investigation as police coordinate efforts to locate the suspects. In light of the tragedy, the festival organizers have pledged a thorough review of security protocols for future events.

-Thailand News (TN)