Chinese tourist struck in the face by bullet at Phuket shooting range

*A visit to a shooting range in Kathu, Phuket, ended with a Chinese tourist being taken to the hospital yesterday evening, March 18, after she was struck in the face by a stray bullet when a staff member’s firearm…*

Published: 2026-03-19 19:11 UTC Event date: 2026-03-19

Chinese tourist struck in the face by bullet at Phuket shooting range

A Chinese tourist was injured by a stray bullet at a shooting range in Kathu, Phuket, on the evening of March 18, 2026, when a staff member’s firearm accidentally discharged. The incident occurred at a shooting range located opposite Tiger Kingdom in the Kathu subdistrict, leading to the immediate hospitalisation of the victim. Police in Kathu were alerted to the shooting at approximately 6:10pm and have since launched an investigation into the circumstances.

Shooting Range Accident in Kathu District

According to police reports, the incident took place as 52-year-old Chinese national Li Li was visiting the shooting range with a friend. After completing their shooting session, Li Li and her companion were taking photographs in front of the shooting lane. Shortly after, a taxi driver who had arrived to pick up Li Li noticed her injury and notified the range staff.

Li Li was transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where doctors discovered a 9mm bullet lodged in her right cheek. Medical staff treated her wound, and she remained conscious throughout. The shooting range is situated in Kathu district, a popular area for tourists in Phuket.

Staff Member’s Negligence Cited

Police questioned a 28-year-old shooting range employee, identified as Ha, who admitted responsibility for the accidental discharge. Ha stated that while standing outside the staff room, around 20 metres from the shooting area, he was inspecting his personal firearm and forgot there was a round in the chamber. The weapon discharged unexpectedly, sending a bullet through a wooden wall and a glass door before striking Li Li in the face.

Authorities detained Ha for legal proceedings. He faces charges of negligence, causing serious injury, and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. Police are continuing their investigation to determine if further safety violations occurred at the venue.

Ongoing Investigation and Safety Concerns

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about firearm safety at shooting ranges in Phuket and across Thailand. The case comes just days after a separate fatal shooting involving a Chinese tourist at a range in Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani. In the Phuket case, police are reviewing security protocols and staff training at the Kathu shooting range.

Li Li remains under medical care as police continue to collect evidence and interview witnesses. Authorities have stated that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses, and additional safety measures may be implemented at shooting ranges in Phuket in response to this incident.

Source: https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/chinese-tourist-struck-face-bullet-phuket-shooting-range