A British man arrested in Thailand is in police custody after the fatal shooting of his Thai wife in Maha Sarakham province, according to Thai authorities.
British Man Arrested in Thailand Following Multi-Province Police Operation
Police identified the suspect as Anthony James, a British national. Investigators say he shot his wife at a house in Ban Nong Hin village in Maha Sarakham province. This region is in northeastern Thailand, known locally as Isan.
After the shooting, James fled in a white four-door Isuzu pickup truck with Chonburi plates. Police issued a public warning that he was armed and dangerous. They urged residents in Maha Sarakham and nearby areas to remain alert.
Investigators traced the British man arrested in Thailand to Khon Kaen city, a regional centre about 70 kilometres away. Police said he planned to meet a friend at a bar near the Khon Kaen Municipality Office. Officers found the Isuzu abandoned on Sri Chan Road near a hotel. CCTV showed James leaving the truck with a suitcase and walking off with a friend in a blue pickup.
Further CCTV tracking led police to a hotel near Kaen Nakhon Lake, a well known public park in Khon Kaen. Police from local and provincial units, tourist police, and immigration surrounded the room where he stayed. After talks he surrendered without resistance.
Officers took James to Muang Khon Kaen police station for questioning. Senior police were present. A search of the abandoned truck found a 9mm firearm hidden in the engine compartment. Police believe this was used in the killing.
During initial questioning, the suspect gave conflicting statements and appeared stressed. He said the shooting was an accident. He told police he had been ill and argued with his wife that morning. He said he fired the gun in anger and fled to Khon Kaen to seek help.
Investigators from Maha Sarakham later took custody of the suspect for further questioning. Forensic teams collected DNA evidence. A lawyer was present during more than three hours of interrogation. James later said he and his wife fought over the gun, and it discharged twice, killing her.
Police said the British man arrested in Thailand was found within hours because of CCTV from hotels and local businesses. They said strong coordination between units prevented further harm. The investigation continues as authorities prepare formal charges under Thai law.
