Elephant found dead in Thailand national park with electrical wire wrapped around trunk

An elephant in Thailand's Khao Yai National Park was found dead on Aug. 16, 2025.

The elephant, known as Plai Khun Suek, died from electrocution, with the electrical wire still wrapped around his trunk, according to Khaosod English.

Thai media outlet Daily News Online reported that the elephant was found lying near the entrance of a villager's farm, with wires tangled around the tip of his trunk and mouth.

Possible foraging incident

Park officials and police later launched an investigation.

Preliminary findings suggested that the elephant had wandered outside the park boundary at night in search of food and was electrocuted after pulling on the wire with his trunk.

Chaiya Huaihongthong, head of Khao Yai National Park, said he had coordinated with a veterinarian to conduct a thorough autopsy.

He stated that the incident appeared to be accidental and that no one was to blame.

On Aug. 17, Daily News Online reported that traces of electric shock were found on the elephant’s carcass, consistent with previous cases of elephant deaths by electrocution in the area.

As a result, officials decided not to proceed with an autopsy to avoid further damage to the body.

Burial

Chaiya also coordinated with local monks to perform religious rites before the burial of the elephant within the park.

Its tusks were removed to use in religious ceremony and merit-making.

Officials from various agencies worked together to transport the multi-tonne carcass to its final resting place within the park, which was about 10km away.

Plai Khun Suek was well-known among villagers as a well-behaved elephant who had never caused trouble.

Many were reportedly saddened by his death.

Top photos from Daily News Online