Thai Police: Train Driver in Fatal Crash Tested Positive for Drugs

Thai authorities have confirmed that the driver of a freight train involved in a deadly collision with a public bus in Bangkok tested positive for drugs, according to police statements and initial investigation results.

The crash occurred on Saturday afternoon at a railway crossing in central Bangkok when a freight train struck a bus that was reportedly stopped on the tracks. The impact triggered a fire and involved several nearby vehicles.

Police say at least eight people were killed and 32 others injured, all of them passengers on the bus. Emergency responders rushed survivors to nearby hospitals as investigators cordoned off the scene.

According to Thai police and transport officials, a preliminary urine test conducted on the train driver returned positive for illegal substances. Authorities have not yet released full details of the substances detected, pending confirmatory laboratory results.

Investigators also revealed that further tests are being carried out on other railway personnel linked to the incident, including a crossing gate operator. Officials say the findings will be used to determine whether additional charges will be filed.

The train driver has already been charged with negligence causing death and serious injury, while authorities continue to examine whether impairment played a role in the crash.

In response to the incident, Thailand’s Department of Rail Transport has ordered mandatory drug and alcohol screening for all train operators and safety personnel before duty shifts, citing urgent safety concerns.

The investigation is ongoing.