The young girl, who has been named only as “Nong Toom” is the third fatality from the fire, which happened on the morning of October 7, while the Phuket had stopped at the Songpon Steel workshop in Takua Thung for welding repairs to a broken driver’s seat. (See initial story here.)
Twelve others were also hospitalized initially, two of which – including Nong Toon – have since died.
Phang Nga Hospital Deputy director Dr Tipparat Tansakulprasert confirmed that 12 year old Nong Toon (real name omitted) died in ICU on Saturday morning (October 10) as a result of complications from smoke inhalation.
“When rescue workers brought Nong Toon to the hospital, she was unconscious and we were able to revive her. She remained in ICU in critical condition and was being monitored closely by staff but we lost her today amid the sadness and sorrow of staffs,friends and family,” Dr Tipparat said in a statement issued on Saturday afternoon.
“Nong Toon is the third victim … The deadly bus also claimed the lives of Dang Paharat who was dead at the scene, and Ms Sunisa Chookaew, who also died after being admitted to ICU,” Dr Tipparat said.
The deceased's mother, Ms Ruetaitip Klengprasong explained that her daughter was sitting in the middle of the bus when the fire broke out, and that passengers had attempted to run out but the automatic door was shut.
“She [Nong Toon] was among several others who were trapped inside for more than an hour before residents finally broke the glass and door to free them. [Nong] Toon was already unconscious by the time she was found [on the bus],” said Ms Ruetaitip.
It is understood that the welding repairs were carried out while all 21 passengers, Thai and foreign, were still on board. Sparks from the welding ignited a fire that quickly spread through the bus, prompting passengers to cram the exit near the centre of the bus.
The bus driver has since been charged with negligence resulting in death and injury. (Story here.)
The bus is owned and operated by Trang Ruammit Co Ltd, who have appointed representatives to mediate with victims and families of the deceased.
It is understood that the company has covered all medical expenses of all the victims thus far.