A peaceful Buddhist pilgrimage in northeastern Thailand turned into a national tragedy after an 11-year-old boy drove a pickup truck into a group of monks walking along a roadside in Mukdahan province.

According to officials, 35 monks had begun a 260-kilometer journey from Mukdahan to Ubon Ratchathani only about 30 minutes before the crash. The group was walking in a single line when the vehicle suddenly swerved off the road and struck them.

The latest report from the Associated Press said 10 monks died, with five losing their lives at the scene and five others later dying at a hospital. More than 10 people were hospitalized, and one person remained in critical condition.

Police said the boy was taken into custody after the crash. Authorities are still investigating exactly how he obtained the vehicle and why the truck lost control. Officials also said the child’s parents may face negligence-related charges.

The tragedy has shocked Thailand, a country where Buddhist monks hold deep cultural and spiritual importance. What began as a journey of faith has now become a painful reminder of road safety, parental responsibility, and the devastating consequences of one uncontrolled moment.

Source: Associated Press