A devastating mass shooting happened in Thailand today as a former police officer went to a local nursery in Nong Bua Lamphu, a small town near the border of Laos.

According to authorities, the gunman was identified as Panya Kamrab. The 34-year-old criminal was reportedly terminated as a corporal after being arrested with methamphetamine on him, according to the Royal Thai Police.

Kamrab entered the daycare center armed around lunchtime, according to district official Jidapa Boonsom. The nearby establishments first thought it was just fireworks since mass shootings in Thailand are rare. However, many were alerted after the gunshots continued on for minutes. Witnesses also saw Kamrab escaping the pre-school in a white pickup truck. Kamrab reportedly used a 9mm gun and stabbed the children with a knife, according to Thairath TV reports who cited local police.

Hours after the incident, the police issued a “Most Wanted” notice for Kamrab. Then, it was later discovered that he killed his wife and child after the incident. Eventually, Kamrab committed suicide. According to Police Maj. Gen. Paisan Leusomboon, there were 34 people killed, including Kamrab.

As of writing, there have been no speculations around the motive, and why the nursery was specifically targeted.

Prime minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has expressed his condolences to all families affected by the incident.

Family members of the children were seen crying on the site, looking for the Thai administration for help and answers.

https://twitter.com/ChaudharyParvez/status/1577932443142696960