In a tragic incident in north-east Thailand's Mukdahan province, nine Buddhist monks lost their lives and several others were injured when an 11-year-old boy driving his parents' pickup truck collided with them during a pilgrimage. The group of 35 monks and five lay followers were walking along the roadside when the accident occurred. Preliminary investigations suggest that the child took the vehicle without permission and lost control, crashing into the procession. Five monks died at the scene, and four others succumbed to their injuries in the hospital. The boy is currently being cared for by a team of officials, including his guardians and doctor. The incident has prompted an urgent appeal for blood donations at Mukdahan Hospital to help the injured monks, with three still in critical condition and several more seriously hurt. Phra Sompong, a monk who was part of the group, recounted the accident, stating that he managed to jump out of the way just in time. The case has raised concerns about road safety in Thailand, with Mukdahan provincial governor Worayan Bunnarat urging stricter measures to prevent such accidents. Initial investigations indicate that no one was home before the incident except the child suspect, who did not go to school because he was unwell. Police are still determining the legal process for the boy going forward.