Eight Buddhist monks lost their lives, and 13 others sustained severe injuries following a tragic incident in Thailand where a pick-up truck collided with a group on a walking pilgrimage. The heartbreaking event took place around noon local time on Thursday in the northeastern province of Mukdahan. Five monks perished at the scene, with three more succumbing to their injuries in the hospital.

According to reports, the pick-up truck was driven by an 11-year-old boy who allegedly took the vehicle without adult permission. The devastating crash occurred along the roadside in Ban Na Si Nuan in the Mueang district. The exact age of the driver has not been officially confirmed.

Emergency services found monks lying on the road and roadside upon arrival at the cordoned-off scene. The 13 injured monks were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals for urgent medical attention.

Authorities are currently conducting an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident. The monks were en route to the Don Tan district after having lunch at Wat Roi Phra Phutthabat Phu Manorom, as reported by Thai Enquirer.

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