In the bustling province of Pathum Thani, just a stone’s throw from Bangkok’s frenetic pace, a peculiar tale of road rage unfurled on a seemingly ordinary Wednesday. It wasn’t the kind of mid-week excitement anyone wished for, particularly for the elderly couple embroiled in the incident. It involved a son of a local political stalwart, turning what might otherwise be dismissed as just another traffic squabble into headline news.
Emerging from the chaos was Smitthiphat Leenawarat, a young man of 28 with connections that ran as deep as his father’s political roots. On a fateful Thursday, Smitthiphat, in his pristine BMW, sideswiped a pickup truck piloted by Prachak Duangyai, aged 65, and his wife Somsri, 64. Their vehicle careened into one of Bangkok’s notorious media barriers lining the eastern outer ring road. Ms. Somsri escaped with minor injuries, but Mr. Prachak wasn’t as fortunate, suffering a broken rib — a price extracted by the grim dance of metal and momentum.
When the news broke, it wasn’t just the impact of the crash that rippled through Pathum Thani but also the immediate consequences, both social and familial. With a desire to mend more than just broken bones, Smitthiphat and his father, Krissada, promptly arrived at Bangpakok-Rangsit 2 Hospital, deep pockets filled with 200,000 baht — a humble offering that spoke volumes of their intent to assume responsibility, or perhaps to pave a smoother road amidst rough public perception.
Although their intentions might have been wrapped in good faith, when the hospital informed Prachak and Somsri of their visitors, the couple were resolute. They weren’t ready to entertain apologies or cash-laden gestures, not from a man whose which had, just days before, nearly been their undoing. Their refusal to meet face-to-face left Smitthiphat with no choice but to offer a different kind of peace offering — a letter. In it, he promised amends for the escalating medical bills, which had already reached significant figures: 80,000 baht for Mr. Prachak and 50,000 for Ms. Somsri.
As whispers of the incident reached further ears, Smitthiphat’s mother, Yupayao Leenarawat, took to Facebook. Her words were a plea, a heartfelt mea culpa, admitting a chink in the familial armor of discipline and patience, particularly in managing a hot temper — an unexpected admission from a family entrenched in political aspirations. She implored the public for compassion, hoping sympathy would sway the tide of judgment.
Further cementing the story’s place in public discourse, activist Guntouch Pongpaiboonwet, or Gun Jom Palang as he’s affectionately known, stepped in. His foundation, understanding the financial duress faced by the elderly couple, contributed 60,000 baht. Medical expenses had soared to over 134,000 baht, an unrelenting reminder of the collision’s true impact.
The morning that set these events in motion was like many others, save for a split-second decision at a toll plaza on Bangkok’s eastern ring road. The elderly couple’s pickup veered into the BMW’s lane, sparking a chain of reactions. Mr. Smitthiphat, perhaps guided by youthful vigor or a perceived slight, pursued the couple’s truck, culminating in the fateful sideswipe. When both vehicles finally halted, what could have spiraled into further conflict was mitigated by bystanders — their diplomacy and smartphones creating a different kind of barrier, one made of restraint and documentation.
As the dust settles, legal gears grind slowly but surely, with charges looming over Smitthiphat. Yet, within Pathum Thani’s close-knit corridors of power, whispers and debates about responsibility and redemption linger, casting long shadows over both personal lives and political careers. The tale underscores a poignant reminder of the roads we travel, how quickly they can change, and the human hearts caught in the criss-crossing paths of fate.
It’s shocking how money and influence try to sweep issues under the rug. This is a clear example of privilege at work.
That’s exactly what bothers me. It’s like they think money can erase the trauma they’ve caused.
True, and offering money immediately doesn’t even seem genuine. It looks more like damage control.
Some see it as a goodwill gesture, but it feels more like a PR move to me.
I feel bad for both parties involved. The young man made a mistake, but at least he’s acknowledging it instead of hiding behind lawyers.
Acknowledging it only after it became public knowledge. Would he have done the same if it stayed private?
Possibly not, but at least he’s trying to make amends now. Isn’t that better than doing nothing?
Back in my day, you would’ve just settled this with a handshake and moved on. What’s with all the drama?
Times have changed, old man. Accountability matters more now, especially with social media around.
True, but human decency shouldn’t need public pressure. That’s what I’m saying.
Whether rich or poor, if you’re careless and cause harm, you should face the consequences. Why the double standards?
I agree, but different resources lead to different outcomes. It’s always been that way, unfortunately.
We need to push for fairer systems so this doesn’t keep repeating.
I can’t believe the couple didn’t even accept meeting them. It shows they value more than just money, which is respectable.
Exactly, it’s about dignity. Money can’t fix everything that’s broken.
Yupayao’s Facebook apology seemed like a genuine attempt from a mother’s heart. People are being too harsh.
Maybe, but public apologies could just be to sway opinions before elections. You can’t fully trust politicians.
True, but sometimes actions are genuine. It’s harsh to assume the worst immediately.
Smitthiphat should be given a chance to show he’s learned from this. Everyone can change for the better.
Why is everyone so serious? Mistakes happen, let it go. Life’s too short to hold onto negativity.
It’s not just about the accident, but how the aftermath is handled. Mistakes might be made, but accountability is key.
The hole in their ‘familial armor’ is showing! Apologies from the family are nice, but let’s see real action beyond words.
They said they’d cover costs, isn’t that an action?
Covering costs is the bare minimum after causing harm.
Gun Jom Palang’s involvement shows there’s still hope for community solidarity. We need more people like him.
Let’s not forget, this kind of entitlement and lack of accountability runs rampant among the elite in Thailand.
It’s not just Thailand. Happens everywhere money dictates the rules.
What if the tables were turned and it was poor folks who hit the politician’s son? We all know the results would differ.