Monk charged in another monk's murder

IRVINGTON, Ala. (WALA) - Questions remain after a senior monk in Mobile County was found beaten to death.

The body of 45-year-old Chaiwat Moleechate was discovered inside a Buddhist temple, just off Boe Road in Irvington.

"The suspect and victim are both monks, and we do not know what the altercation was over. But we're trying to get to the bottom of that," said Lt. Paul Burch with the Mobile County Sheriff's Office.

Burch said the victim was beaten with an unknown object.

Worshipers and fellow monks gathered around the crime scene in horror.

“I’m shocked. I couldn't believe it,” said temple President Visanou Khamphouy. “How many years people stay together and kill each other like that?”

Khamphouy said the two men were arguing over chores and following orders.

Shortly after, a third monk discovered Moleechate’s body and ran for help.

“He say after he came down to see, he was shocked. He was scared, and he just ran to try and find help,” translated Visanou Khamphouy.

Veun Phdsamay, 32, was arrested for the murder.

Burch told FOX10 News the monk confessed to the crime later Friday night.

Burch said the department obtained a search warrant for a nearby mobile home to search for the weapon used.

FOX10 News interviewed the victim back in 2008 after that same Buddhist temple caught fire.

The suspect is expected in court for a bond hearing Monday, May 14.