Nine Buddhist monks were killed and several others injured when an 11-year-old boy, driving his parents' pickup truck without permission, crashed into their procession in Thailand's Mukdahan province.
The group of 35 monks and five lay followers were walking along a road during a pilgrimage when the incident occurred. Five monks died at the scene, and four more later died in hospital. Three monks remain in critical condition.
Police said the boy, who has special needs and was home sick from school, took the truck before losing control. His guardians notified police when they realized the vehicle was missing.
A monk who survived described the truck approaching at full speed before crashing into the group. The monks in the front of the line survived by jumping aside.
Buddhist monks are highly respected in Thailand, and public processions are common as a way for the public to show respect by offering alms.
A hospital has issued an urgent appeal for blood donations to treat the injured. A provincial governor called the tragedy a "lesson" for road safety across the country.