A hotel receptionist was bludgeoned to death and robbed by a man wielding a metal bar in Hua Hin early Tuesday morning, and police have launched an intense search for the killer.
Wirin "Nui" Thaolipo, 35, a front-desk receptionist at a hotel in Soi Hua Hin 88/1, was attacked about 3am.
Security camera footage showed a man aged 30-40 years entering the lobby. The victim was on duty, resting behind the counter at the front desk.
The man stayed in the lobby for a while before climbing over the counter and using a metal bar to strike her on the head 14 times. He stole two mobile phones and the victim's black handbag before fleeing.
Rescue workers rushed Wirin to Bangkok Hospital Hua Hin, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
The murder left the victim’s family devastated and sparked public calls for the killer's swift capture.
Police reviewed security camera recordings and other evidence and identified the prime suspect as Rattikorn Yingyod, 36.
Police said Mr Rattikorn had prior convictions for physical assault and rape. A manhunt is underway to find him.
