PHUKET: A retired Phuket policeman shot himself dead with a .38 today as his wife left their home to go to the market, police believe.

Former Senior Sergeant Chanan Bompen, 65, was suffering from serious health issues and his condition was growing worse, said an investigating officer.

He was a ''good guy'' whose 37-year-old son lived not far from his mother and father near the main bus terminus in Thepkasattri Road, Phuket City.

Khun Chanan's body was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital after the shooting at 5.10am.