A construction crane working on a high-speed rail project has collapsed onto a moving passenger train in northeast Thailand, killing at least 12 people and injuring dozens more, according to officials and local police. The crash happened in the Sikhio district of Nakhon Ratchasima province, around 230 kilometres (143 miles) from Bangkok, after the crane struck a carriage as the train passed through the construction zone.

The impact caused multiple carriages to derail, and parts of the train briefly caught fire before emergency crews brought the flames under control. Rescue teams have been searching damaged coaches for passengers who may still be trapped, while the injured have been taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.

The train was travelling from Bangkok toward Ubon Ratchathani province when the crane fell. In early reports, authorities confirmed at least 12 deaths; later updates carried by Reuters said police had raised the death toll and warned it could climb further as recovery work continues.

Thailand’s government communications have also issued updates as the emergency response unfolded, including details on the derailment, injuries and rescue deployments. Readers can follow official notices via PR Thai Government (Public Relations Department) and transport updates through the Ministry of Transport .

What happened

• A crane being used on an elevated high-speed rail build collapsed and hit a passing passenger train.
• The train derailed and a brief fire was reported before being extinguished by responders.
• Officials confirmed at least 12 deaths initially, with later police updates indicating a higher toll as more victims were recovered.

Video clip from the scene of the serious train accident today when a crane fell onto a passenger train at a construction site in Nakhon Ratchasima province. Multiple deaths reported.

Video released by @PR_SRT #Thailand pic.twitter.com/AOP2Ng7ESR

— Thai Train Guide (@ThaiTrainGuide) January 14, 2026

Rescue effort and investigation

Emergency services — including police, firefighters and medical teams — were deployed to the scene to evacuate passengers, treat the injured and stabilise derailed carriages. Authorities said a formal investigation has begun into why the crane collapsed and whether safety procedures at the work site were followed.

Rail travel through the affected area was disrupted as recovery crews cleared debris and inspected track damage. For rail service updates, the State Railway of Thailand can be checked at railway.co.th .

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