A 78-year-old driver has been charged with negligence after his electric car ploughed into the Guanyin Shrine at the Thian Fah Foundation in Bangkok’s Yaowarat area on Thursday, killing an 82-year-old woman, police said.
Pol Col Witthawat Khengkhum, chief of Phlapphla Chai 2 police station, said one person was killed and eight injured.
The 78-year-old driver was charged on Thursday with causing death, serious injury and bodily or mental harm by negligence. He was not arrested as he turned himself in, showed no sign of trying to flee and has a permanent address. He was released temporarily and told to report to the investigating officer on a set date.
Initial reports said the driver had lost consciousness. Police said he told them he may have confused the brake and accelerator pedals while trying to stop.
Preliminary drug and alcohol tests have been conducted. Pol Col Witthawat said his testimony also touched on medication, but police would pursue the charges regardless.
Police will send the case file to public prosecutors once forensic results and the investigation are complete, he said. Compensation for the victims and the foundation is expected to be arranged next week.
Asked about elderly drivers, Pol Col Witthawat said no law sets an upper age limit for driving, and the Department of Land Transport and other agencies may need to study accident statistics before considering any rules.
Police have moved to discuss safety measures with the foundation’s owner and other venues to prevent similar accidents.
The 68-year-old shrine remains open for worship with limited access.