Forest Ranger Found Dead, Hanging From a Tree
A fugitive forest ranger who murdered his stepson has been found hanging from a tree in the forest in the Non Dindaeng district of Buri Ram on Monday, ending a week-long manhunt.
Phitphirun Phiraphop’s body was found in the La Loeng Roi Roo forest early on Monday. This was not far from the government vehicle he had used to attack his former wife’s house and family.
In the search for him, more than 100 police officers, foresters, and local officials were deployed.
Phitphirun worked at the Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary in Buri Ram province as a senior forest protection ranger.
Arrest Warrant for Forest Ranger
On March 13, he stole a shotgun and a vehicle from the Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary, and then he headed to the house of his estranged wife, 37-year-old Kalaya Anthaisong, in Tambon Hu Thamnop, Pakham district.
He allegedly broke the door down and entered the house with a shotgun and opened fire wildly, causing the family to flee in panic. Ms. Kalaya, her new boyfriend, her mother, and her youngest son were all unharmed. Her eldest son from her previous marriage, Natthappong, 20, was killed by a gunshot to the neck.
A month earlier, Ms. Kalaya had ended her relationship with Phitphirun after two years.
After the attack, Phitphurin fled into the forest near the sanctuary where he worked.
A warrant for his arrest was issued for murder, illegal possession of a firearm in a public place, trespassing, and theft of a shotgun and a vehicle.