Missing DJ Found Murdered in Remote Kanchanaburi Forest; Romantic Conflict Suspected
KANCHANABURI, THAILAND (May 18, 2025) — The mysterious disappearance of a well-known local DJ has ended in tragedy after authorities discovered his lifeless body in a secluded forest in Kanchanaburi province. Police have launched a full-scale murder investigation amid growing evidence that the killing may have stemmed from a romantic dispute.
The victim, Waraphong Khunsrijaturong, 33, popularly known in the local entertainment scene as DJ Taytay, had been missing for four days before his decomposing body was discovered on Sunday in a forested area of Tambon Lat Ya, located in the Muang district of Kanchanaburi.
Grim Discovery in the Forest
According to police and rescue officials, reaching the crime scene required a 20-minute ride through rugged terrain in a four-wheel-drive vehicle followed by a short hike on foot. Waraphong’s body was found lying on its side, hands bound behind his back, with two gunshot wounds to the temple. His body had already begun to decompose, suggesting he had been killed soon after his abduction.
Investigators described the scene as isolated and difficult to access — likely chosen to delay discovery and complicate the investigation. Local wildlife and environmental conditions had already begun to affect the remains, making the crime scene even more disturbing.
A local villager who had initially discovered the body three days earlier admitted to police that he was too frightened to approach the scene. After learning from media reports that a DJ had gone missing and recognizing the clothing, he led police to the site to confirm the grim suspicion.
Suspected Romantic Conflict
The motive, investigators say, may revolve around a romantic entanglement. Waraphong’s girlfriend, who had reported him missing, told police that she had warned him to cut ties with another woman — identified only as “Nam.” Waraphong had allegedly assured her that the relationship was over.
This love triangle is now at the center of the investigation, with authorities probing whether jealousy or revenge may have motivated the brutal killing.
Waraphong’s grieving father, Wichian Khunsrijaturong, condemned the killing as “cruel and unforgivable.” Speaking to local reporters, he demanded that authorities “do everything in their power” to ensure justice is served.
Timeline of the Crime
Waraphong was last seen alive in the early hours of Wednesday morning, after performing at a woman’s birthday party at a local pub. CCTV footage showed him appearing cheerful and energetic while working at the event.
At around 3:54 a.m., surveillance video captured him being forcibly abducted by two men into a white pickup truck in Muang district. That footage became a key piece of evidence that helped police launch a manhunt for the suspects.
The two men — Thanadet and Wikool — have since been arrested, but both deny involvement in the murder. Authorities, however, believe the story is far from over.
Hunt for Third Suspect
Police are now searching for a third suspect believed to have played a significant role in orchestrating the murder. Investigators allege that this individual, who drove a black car, visited the residence of the two arrested suspects in tambon Wang Dong, just days before the murder.
Evidence indicates that this third man had been staying in the area for two weeks, possibly planning the abduction and execution in advance. The black vehicle was later located in Photharam district of neighboring Ratchaburi province. Though it had been thoroughly cleaned, police were able to recover data from the vehicle’s dashcam, which revealed a recent trip into the remote forest area of Kanchanaburi — alarmingly close to where Waraphong’s body was found.
Investigators now believe the third suspect may have lured or assisted in transporting the victim to the forest before the killing occurred.
Community in Mourning
News of Waraphong’s tragic death has sent shockwaves throughout Kanchanaburi and Thailand’s DJ and nightlife communities. Known for his vibrant personality and energetic performances, DJ Taytay had a loyal following and was popular at local events and clubs.
Tributes have poured in across social media, with fans and friends expressing heartbreak, outrage, and disbelief. “He was always smiling, always kind,” one colleague wrote on Facebook. “I can’t believe someone would do this to him.”
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, police are urging the public to come forward with any information that may help identify and apprehend the third suspect. Authorities are also working to uncover the full extent of the relationship between the victim, the suspects, and the woman at the center of the alleged love triangle.
Police have vowed to pursue the case aggressively, promising full transparency and cooperation with Waraphong’s family. Autopsy results and forensic analysis are expected to provide more clarity in the coming days.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Kanchanaburi Provincial Police or the national Crime Suppression Division.