On May 12, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Khao Nan National Park, Thailand, where a park ranger was fatally shot by a hunter who mistakenly identified him as a wild boar. The victim, identified as 30-year-old Kritsiri Pinprayun, was part of a team of rangers conducting a nighttime patrol in the national park when the shooting took place.
Details of the Incident
According to Autthapol Charoenchansa, the chief of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Kritsiri and two other rangers had separated during their patrol, each carrying a flashlight. The shooting occurred around 10 PM, and one of the rangers heard a gunshot and attempted to contact Kritsiri via radio, but received no response. Tragically, he was later found dead with gunshot wounds to his head and neck.
The local hunter, who has since admitted to the authorities that he fired the shot, claimed he was resting in a hammock strung between two trees at the time of the incident. He mistook Kritsiri for a wild boar, leading to the fatal mistake.
Response and Investigation
Following the incident, the family of the deceased ranger has been notified, and assistance is being provided to them during this difficult time. Autthapol confirmed that investigations into the shooting are ongoing, as authorities seek to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
The incident has raised concerns about safety in national parks, particularly regarding hunting practices and the potential for similar accidents. Park rangers play a crucial role in wildlife conservation and protection, and the loss of Kritsiri highlights the dangers they face while on duty.
As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of a dedicated ranger who was committed to protecting Thailand’s natural heritage. The Department of National Parks has reiterated the importance of safety protocols and awareness among hunters to prevent such tragic occurrences in the future.