Chalong Police were notified by Chalong Hospital at about 5pm that a man had died from a gunshot wound while being transported to the hospital.
At the emergency room, police found the victim, later identified as Sakdidech “M” Pila, 33, lying deceased with a gunshot wound to the left side of his chest.
Mr Thongsuk Pila, the victim’s father, told police that his son had been sitting with friends at a neighbour’s house when he became involved in an argument with a nephew, Charoen Boonmak.
Following the altercation, Mr Sakdidech ran back to the family home, passing his father and uncle who were seated at the front of the house.
Moments later, those present heard the sound of someone rummaging in the storage room. About two minutes later, a single gunshot was heard.
Mr Sakdidech then emerged and went to his father, reportedly saying the gun had discharged accidentally. His relatives immediately rushed him to Chalong Hospital on a motorcycle.
Doctors and nurses attempted resuscitation for about 30 minutes but were unable to save him. He was pronounced dead while en route to hospital.
Police said the family expressed no suspicions regarding the cause of death.
Investigators, together with a forensic doctor, conducted an initial examination at the hospital. Phuket Provincial Forensic Police collected gunpowder residue samples from the deceased and sent the body to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a formal autopsy.
Officers later proceeded to the home where the incident took place and recovered a locally made .38-calibre handgun and one spent cartridge. Witnesses at the scene were also brought in for gunshot residue testing as part of the ongoing investigation.
Police are continuing to gather evidence and statements in order to conclude the case.