Chinese Woman Seriously Injured After Accidental Shooting at Phuket Gun Range

*Chinese Woman Seriously Injured After Accidental Shooting at Phuket Gun Range — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.*

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

Chinese Woman Seriously Injured After Accidental Shooting at Phuket Gun Range

Serious Incident at Kathu Shooting Range in Phuket

A Chinese tourist was seriously injured after being struck by a stray bullet at a shooting range in Kathu, Phuket, on the evening of March 18th, 2026. Officers from Kathu Police Station responded to the incident at approximately 6:10 p.m. after receiving a report that a foreign visitor had been shot near the range. The injured woman, identified as 52-year-old Ms. Xiao Li, was quickly transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital for emergency treatment.

Investigation Reveals Staff Negligence and Firearm Discharge

According to initial police inquiries, Ms. Xiao Li and a companion had completed a supervised session at the gun range and were taking photos near the firing booth when the incident occurred. A taxi driver waiting to pick up the visitors noticed the injury and alerted the range staff. Ms. Xiao Li was first taken to Patong Hospital before being transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where doctors confirmed she was conscious and receiving care for a gunshot wound to her right cheek.

Police questioned a 28-year-old employee of the shooting range, who admitted to accidentally discharging his personal firearm while checking it outside the staff quarters, about 20 meters from the shooting area. The bullet traveled through a wooden wall and a glass door before striking Ms. Xiao Li. The staff member stated he had forgotten a round was chambered in the firearm at the time.

Legal Action and Ongoing Safety Review

Authorities have charged the employee with negligence causing serious injury, as well as unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The investigation is ongoing, with Phuket police reviewing safety protocols at the shooting range and the circumstances leading up to the incident. Local officials have not released the name of the shooting range pending further inquiries.

The case highlights the importance of strict safety measures at recreational shooting facilities in Phuket, particularly those serving international tourists. Police are expected to release more information as the investigation progresses and are working with relevant agencies to ensure compliance with firearm regulations.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/03/19/chinese-seriously-injured-after-accidental-shooting-at-phuket-gun-range/