A football tournament in southern Thailand ended in tragedy after a lightning strike hit the pitch during a match, killing a Thai player and injuring several others, including a Malaysian footballer.
The incident happened at around 5pm on Tuesday (4 August) at the Peace Stadium in Sungai Golok, Narathiwat province, where the Golok FA Cup was taking place despite heavy rain.
Videos circulating online appear to show players continuing the match in wet conditions before a bolt of lightning struck near the centre of the field, causing multiple players to collapse. The shocking footage has since spread widely across social media.
Thai Player Dies Despite Rescue Efforts
According to local police, emergency services were alerted at approximately 5.30pm and rushed to the stadium after receiving reports that several players had been struck by lightning.
The victim was identified as 24-year-old Sophuwan, a footballer representing a club from Yala province. Medical personnel attempted to revive him at the scene before transferring him for further treatment, but he later succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities also confirmed that more than nine people were injured during the incident. Among them was a 22-year-old Malaysian footballer, identified as Mohamad Arif, who sustained injuries and was taken to Sungai Golok Hospital for treatment.
Police Investigating Incident
The Sungai Golok district police chief said officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including why the match continued despite the severe weather conditions.
All injured players and officials were transported to hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. Their current conditions have not been fully disclosed.
Thunderstorms are common in southern Thailand during the monsoon season, and weather experts have repeatedly warned that outdoor sporting activities should be suspended immediately whenever lightning is detected nearby.
Lightning Risks During Outdoor Sports
Lightning strikes can occur even when rainfall appears light or distant, making open sports fields particularly dangerous during thunderstorms. Safety guidelines issued by sporting bodies worldwide recommend that matches be halted at the first sign of thunder or lightning.
The tragic incident has reignited discussions about weather safety protocols at amateur and regional sporting events, with many calling for stricter enforcement of match suspensions whenever severe weather develops.
As investigations continue, condolences have poured in for the family of the deceased Thai footballer, while well-wishers have also expressed hopes for the speedy recovery of the injured players, including the Malaysian athlete.