Three Individuals Face Criminal Charges Following Fatal Bangkok Train Collision
Authorities are preparing to recommend criminal charges against three individuals in connection with the deadly collision between a train and a public bus on Asok-Din Daeng Road in Bangkok. The devastating incident, which occurred on May 16, claimed the lives of eight people and left over 30 others injured.
The crash took place near the Makkasan Airport Rail Link Station when a container train collided with public bus number 206. Earlier reports indicated that the train driver had tested positive for drugs and was operating the train without a valid license.
Investigation Details and Pending Reports
Police Colonel Kamphon Rattanaprateep, deputy commander of Metropolitan Police Division 1, stated that the case file has not yet been forwarded to prosecutors. The delay is attributed to ongoing forensic examinations, including analysis of the bus’s server, paint samples from both the bus and train, and a comprehensive examination of the crash scene.
Expected Charges Against Key Personnel
The three individuals anticipated to face charges are the bus driver, the train driver, and the railway barrier operator.
- The bus driver is expected to be charged with reckless driving resulting in death, serious injury, bodily injury, and property damage.
- The train driver faces allegations of negligence causing death, serious injury, bodily injury, and property damage, in addition to charges related to the use of methamphetamine, a Category 1 narcotic.
- The railway barrier operator is also expected to be charged with negligence contributing to death, serious injury, bodily injury, and property damage.
Obstructions and Official Complaints
During the investigation, officials noted the presence of cars and motorcycles obstructing the area on the day of the accident. The Department of Rail Transport has reportedly filed a complaint and is in the process of confirming the identities of all individuals involved. Colonel Rattanaprateep added that the investigation might be separated into new cases if additional offenders are identified.
Compensation and Previous Actions
In related developments, it was announced on May 26 that compensation has been provided to six of the eight families who lost loved ones in the collision. Charges have also been filed against the train driver and motorists found to have blocked the railway tracks, according to Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkaskulkiat.
