Retirement party ends in fatal shooting

SONGKHLA: A farewell party for retirees turned violent early yesterday, when an inebriated partygoer ended a quarrel by shooting dead a drunken colleague.

The shooting happened at the 16th Irrigation Office in tambon Khuan Lang at about 4am, said Pol Lt Col Sathaporn Suksawang, an investigation inspector in Hat Yai.

Anukul Phetthong, 48, an official in the machinery section, was shot twice at close range, suffering fatal wounds to the head and body. His alleged killer was waiting at the scene when police arrived.

Sa-ngad Ninsuwan, 53, a driver who worked in the same office as the victim, appeared very drunk, said Pol Lt Col Sathaporn.

A loaded .38 handgun was handed over to police and two spent cartridges were found at the scene.

Witnesses told police the office held a farewell party for six retiring officials on Thursday night, attended by more than 50 people. It ended at midnight but five or six guests, including the victim and the suspect, stayed and continued drinking.

The two men later became involved in a heated quarrel, Mr Sangad went to his room inside the irrigation office compound and returned soon after.

He suddenly pulled out a gun and opened fire at Anukul, who fell from his chair to the floor and died in full view of the other drinkers.

Police say Mr Sa-ngad apologised for what he’d done, explaining that they’d both been drunk and the shooting was an impulsive act.