The man shot, identified by police as Sitthiphon Anusat, managed to flee the scene, in Soi King Pattana 1, Rawai, and seek help at a nearby convenience store.
Officers from the Rawai Municipality rescue unit arrived and rushed Mr Sitthiphon to Chalong Hospital for treatment. The extent of his injuries has yet to be confirmed.
At the scene, police found bloodstains along a 700-metre path from the convenience store back to the scene, helping police trace the events.
An investigation by Chalong Police revealed that Mr Sitthiphon and his friends had gone to a residence on Saiyuan Rd to collect money from the suspect’s younger brother.
At the house, Mr Sitthiphon encountered the suspect, Khanawat Tingwai, 30. An argument erupted between the two, escalating into a physical struggle.
Khanawat reportedly brandished a .38 revolver, and during a scuffle for control of the weapon, it discharged, injuring Mr Sitthiphon.
After the shooting, Mr Sitthiphon escaped and sought help at a nearby 7-Eleven. Concerned bystanders called the Rawai Municipality Rescue Unit, who quickly arrived to transport him to the hospital.
Police officers set up checkpoints and successfully apprehended Khanawat last night.
Khanawat confessed to his involvement and led authorities to the firearm used in the incident.
Police recovered the gun along with gunpowder residue and other evidence.
Khanawat was taken into custody at Chalong Police Station for further questioning and legal proceedings while police continue their investigation into the shooting.