Fatal field trip: 23 dead after bus catches fire in Thailand, cops search for driver

Vehicle was carrying 39 students, three teachers when incident occurred on outskirts of Bangkok due to exploding tyre which caused spark to ignite gas tank

23 people, who were part of a field trip from a school in Uthai Thani, have been reported dead after the bus they were in caught on fire following a burst tyre on the outskirts of Bangkok. – Social media pic, October 2, 2024

KUALA LUMPUR – At least 23 people died in Thailand when a school bus carrying 45 passengers caught fire on the outskirts of Bangkok yesterday. 

It was reported that 39 students and six teachers from a school in Uthai Thani were on a field trip when the incident occurred on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road. 

It is understood that all 23 bodies have been identified, while 16 students and three teachers were sent to the hospital for further treatment. 

According to the Royal Thai Police acting Commissioner-General Kittharath Punpetch, based on eyewitness accounts and CCTV footage, the fire is believed to have been triggered by a tyre explosion. 

“The explosion reportedly caused a spark that ignited the gas tank, and the fire spread quickly. The bus driver has fled the scene, and police are looking for him.” – October 2, 2024