Police in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya have arrested a man accused of murdering a 73-year-old woman during a robbery. The suspect, who had recently been released from prison, confessed that he killed her because she was making noise, fearing that people would hear her cries for help.
On September 23, 2024, police received reports of an elderly woman found dead at her home. The victim, identified as Jira Mangkonphan, was discovered with multiple blunt force injuries, indicating a struggle. Evidence, including blood on curtains, led investigators to a swift response to the scene.
The suspect, 44-year-old Olar Wongaroj, was found hiding in a nearby canal after villagers reported his location to the authorities. Police were concerned about community backlash and quickly transported him to the police station for his safety.
Olar stated that he intended to rob the victim and struck her in the face multiple times, ultimately suffocating her with a pillow to prevent her from screaming. He denied allegations of attempted rape, pending a medical examination. Stolen items included a bag with 1,400 Thai Baht and a mobile phone.
Authorities charged Olar with intentional homicide and robbery causing death. He has a prior criminal history of theft and drug-related charges, having been released from prison only two years ago.
The victim’s daughter, Arisa, expressed grief over her mother’s death and explained that her mother lived alone. Neighbors reported hearing strange noises late at night and broke into the house to find Jira deceased. Arisa mentioned that her mother was a good person who never had conflicts with anyone, questioning why someone would commit such an atrocity against her.
Witnesses and family members connected the crime to drug-related issues in the neighborhood, bringing attention to safety concerns. The community is in shock, as the assailant is known to them and had recently been released from prison.
This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
