SOURCE: BBC NEWS
At least 34 people have been killed in an attack at a childcare facility in north-eastern Thailand.
More than 20 children are among the dead, with victims as young as two years old.
The attack began when a man armed with a gun and a knife stormed into the childcare facility in Nong Bua Lamphu province.
The gunman, who killed himself after the shooting, has been identified as former police officer Panya Khamrab.
He was dismissed from the police force over drugs offences last year, police say.
Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has ordered an urgent probe into the attack and offered condolences to the families of the victims.
Mass shootings are relatively rare in Thailand, although gun ownership is high for the region.
World leaders offer sympathies to families
Global leaders have been offering their sympathies to the families of the victims of this morning’s attack.
UK Prime Minister Liz Truss tweeted that she was “shocked to hear of the horrific events in Thailand this morning”.
“My thoughts are with all those affected and the first responders. The UK stands with the Thai people at this terrible time,” she added.
Australian leader Anthony Albanese wrote that it was “impossible to comprehend the heartbreak” and said “all Australians send their love and condolences”.
