2 killed, 1 wounded in Phetchaburi gunfight

Big gunfight in Phetchaburi. (Bangkok Post file photo)

PHETCHABURI: Two security guards were killed and another man injured in a fight between two armed rival groups of customers, most of them teenagers, in front of a restaurant early on Sunday, police said.

The incident occurred at about 1.10am after Saengtawan restaurant closed its doors. The two groups of teenagers started to fight, prompting the restaurant's security guards, Thanapat Kaewcharoen, 41, and Cpl Peeratham Phutprasert, 47, to intervene in an attempt to break them up.

One of the customers, Methee Khamphet, 34, went to his car, returned with a gun and opened fire. Members of both rival groups were armed, and an exchange of gunfire ensued.

Both guards, Mr Thanaphet and Cpl Peeratham, were wounded by gunshots. They were rushed to Phra Chom Klao Hospital in Phetchaburi, but were later pronounded dead.

Mr Methee, who was wounded, was also admitted to the hospital for treatment. He was detained for further questioning and legal action.

Police examined the scene of fighting shortly afterward and found several trails of blood. They also recovered five spent shells of 11mm ammunition and a .357 pistol in the bushes nearby.

Police were investigating.