The collision occurred in Mukdahan province, where 35 Buddhist monks and five lay followers were walking along a roadside as part of a religious pilgrimage. Authorities said the child had taken the vehicle without his parents’ permission before losing control and striking the group.

Police said five monks died at the scene, while three others later succumbed to their injuries in hospital. Health officials reported that four monks remained in critical condition at Mukdahan Hospital, with 10 others seriously injured and several more receiving treatment for less severe injuries.

A monk identified as Phra Sompong, who survived the crash, said he saw the pickup truck approaching while chanting a Buddhist meditation mantra. He said he and another monk managed to jump clear moments before the vehicle plowed into the procession, while several monks were thrown into the air by the impact.

Closed-circuit television footage from a nearby property captured the procession walking along the roadside before the sound of the collision was heard and the group came to a halt.

Police Major General Pairoj Thaiphutsa, commander of the Mukdahan Provincial Police, said investigators had seized the pickup truck for forensic examination to determine the circumstances of the crash.

He said officers had summoned the child’s parents to establish responsibility for the boy’s supervision as part of the legal process. Mukdahan City Police chief Prayut Ruanthongkam confirmed to AFP that the driver was an 11-year-old boy.

Buddhist monks hold a highly respected place in Thai society and regularly participate in public religious ceremonies, including pilgrimages and alms-giving processions that attract widespread community participation.

Mukdahan Governor Worayan Bunnarat said the tragedy should reinforce the importance of road safety and greater parental responsibility in preventing similar incidents.

Thailand has one of the world’s highest rates of road fatalities, with speeding, impaired driving and inconsistent enforcement of traffic laws frequently identified as major contributing factors to serious accidents.

MAuthorities said the investigation into the crash is continuing as forensic experts examine the vehicle and police determine any legal liability arising from the incident.