A Khao Yai ranger was killed and an official injured during an attack by a male gaur, while on patrol in Khao Yai National Park in Prachin Buri province.
The forest ranger, Nakorn Sriruang, sustained severe injuries and was rushed to Chaopraya Abhaiphubejhr Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
Samluai Neeplee, a contract worker, sustained several broken ribs. However, he is reported to be in a stable condition at Pakchongnana Hospital in Nakhon Ratchasima.
National park chief Adisak Phusitwongsanuyut said bathing rites for Nakorn will be held at Wat Kudkhla in Pak Chong district in Nakhon Ratchasima at 4pm today with three days of chanting beginning at 8pm.
Nakorn's family have received 500,000 baht in compensation and educational funds for his unborn child will be provided until he graduates from university.
Mr Adisak said Nakorn was leading his patrol team on a mission around Khao Samo Pun in tambon Neon Hom of Muang Prachin Buri district to prevent forest encroachment.
At 1.10pm, as officials were searching for a source of water, the gaur charged at Mr Samluai, before attacking Nakorn. Other officials present scared the animal away by firing their weapons into the air.
Nakorn suffered severe wounds to his right leg and lost consciousness due to blood loss, while Mr Samluai was left with chest injuries. Colleagues radioed for assistance and a helicopter was sent to take the pair to nearby hospitals.