JUST IN: In a recent incident at Bangkok's renowned Siam Paragon mall, earlier reports of three fatalities have been revised to two tragic loss of lives. The event unfolded with the sound of gunshots, prompting hundreds of shoppers to flee the scene in fear for their safety.

The Thai Central Investigation Bureau has reported that a 14-year-old male suspect was arrested on the third floor of the Siam Kempinski Hotel. Surveillance footage captured the suspected shooter, who ultimately surrendered after depleting his ammunition. He was seen kneeling with his hands on his head as three officers approached, with one officer eventually subduing him.

Images circulating of the alleged gunman depict an individual clad in camouflage trousers, a brown cap, a black jacket, and military-style shoes. In one photograph, the individual appears to be holding a handgun.

Social media was inundated with videos and photos depicting panicked shoppers rushing toward the exits upon hearing reports of an "active shooter" at Siam Paragon mall, an incident that occurred around 4 pm. For those unable to reach the exits in time, stores within the mall provided refuge. Videos circulated online showing men, women, and children quickly exiting a grocery shop in an effort to escape the chaotic scene.

Emergency services have confirmed one fatality and three injuries resulting from the incident, with one of the wounded individuals identified as a foreigner, according to Thai PBS. 

Initial reports suggested that the gunshots originated from a restroom on the ground floor of the mall.

The suspect, a student at a nearby school, has claimed that he believed he was under threat of an impending attack. Consequently, he drew and discharged his Glock 9mm pistol in response, as reported by The Nation. As reported by a local news source, the 14-year-old suspect apparently told the police, sharing that he had heard a voice that led him to commit the tragic act.

More to come. 

Source: Al Jazeera