Train driver charged after Bangkok crash kills eight
The driver of a freight train that collided with a public bus in Bangkok has been charged with reckless driving after testing positive for drugs. The crash left eight people dead and 30 injured, according to authorities. Urumporn Koondejsumrit, a local police chief, said both the train driver and a railway-crossing guard have been charged with negligence causing injury and death. Both individuals have denied the charges.
What we know
- The train collided with a public bus at a busy junction in Bangkok, causing the bus to burst into flames.
- Police said the train driver tested positive for illicit drugs in an initial urine test; further tests are planned for other crew members.
- Both the train driver and a railway-crossing guard were charged with negligence causing injury and death.
- Bangkok police chief Siam Boonsom noted that traffic congestion is common at the crossing, but accidents are rare.
- Local emergency services confirmed eight deaths and 30 injuries, with 17 people still hospitalized as of Sunday evening.
