CHIANG MAI — Police arrested a 35-year-old man on Tuesday after he allegedly assaulted his five-month pregnant girlfriend until she died in their Chiang Mai residence. The suspect initially claimed the victim fell on her own, but later confessed to the attack during police questioning, citing a fit of jealousy.
The incident occurred in the Nong Hoi subdistrict of Mueang district. Authorities identified the victim as 33-year-old Ms. Yardrung, a native of Mae Rim district. Her boyfriend, Mr. Kanthee, a former nursing assistant also known as “Jib,” was taken into custody at the scene.
According to reports from Thairath, first responders found the victim with visible bruising on her body. Mr. Kanthee was waiting for officers at the house and maintained that the woman had accidentally slipped and fallen.
Investigators became skeptical of his account due to the nature of the injuries. After intense interrogation, Mr. Kanthee admitted to the physical assault. He reportedly told police that he lost control during an argument and choked the victim.
The Chiang Mai Couple Had a History of Domestic Disputes
Mr. Kanthee and Ms. Yardrung had been in a relationship for approximately eight months. The suspect had previously worked as a nursing assistant but recently quit his job to sell clothes online and work as a delivery rider.
Police stated that the couple had a history of frequent arguments rooted in jealousy. Mr. Kanthee told investigators he suspected the victim was seeing other people. During their final dispute, he reportedly questioned the paternity of the unborn child, an accusation that escalated the violence.
“I am sorry. I loved her very much,” Mr. Kanthee said while in tears when reporters asked if he had a message for the victim’s family.
Neighbors described the couple as relatively private. They noted that Mr. Kanthee appeared to have a hot temper. On the night of the incident, residents reported hearing a heated argument between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. Many did not intervene, assuming it was a routine domestic dispute.
Officers at the scene observed two white sedans parked in front of the single-story house. One vehicle belonged to the victim and the other to the suspect. Forensic teams have collected evidence from the interior of the home to assist with the prosecution.
Legal Charges and Next Steps
Authorities have charged Mr. Kanthee with assault causing death. Under Thai law, the suspect faces significant prison time if convicted, particularly given the victim’s pregnancy.
Police are currently waiting for a full autopsy report from the Forensic Medicine Institute to determine the exact cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing as officers gather more witness statements and physical evidence to build the case for court.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing issue of domestic abuse. Local authorities urge anyone experiencing violence in the home to contact emergency services or local support groups immediately. Help is available 24 hours a day through the Social Development and Human Security Ministry’s hotline.
