Van Driver Assaults Mechanic After Question About Scar Leads to Rage

Nonthaburi: A young mechanic was assaulted by an enraged van driver on Tiwanon-Pak Kret Road, heading towards Pathum Thani. The incident, which occurred on May 5, was sparked by a seemingly innocuous question about a scar. Surveillance footage captured the van driver, a man in a blue shirt, wielding an iron rod as he approached the mechanic, who was in a black shirt and holding a helmet. A verbal exchange escalated, resulting in the mechanic being punched despite his attempts to appease the driver with a wai gesture. According to Thai News Agency, Pak Kret Police Station in Nonthaburi Province has since summoned both parties involved for questioning. Mr. Suphakin, a 29-year-old car mechanic and the victim, reported that he was riding his motorcycle home from work when he slowed down to allow the van to pass. This maneuver led to a minor collision at their mirrors. Initially, the conversation between the two men was amicable, but tensions rose when Mr. Suphakin inquired, "Is this an old wound?" while discussi ng the damage. The question infuriated the van driver, leading to the physical assault. Mr. Wichai, the 48-year-old van driver, confessed to his actions, citing the question about the scratches as the trigger for his anger. He felt that the inquiry implied he was at fault for the collision. Acknowledging his wrongdoing, Mr. Wichai expressed willingness to apologize for his actions.