Bangkok Blasts; New Year's Events Canceled

2 killed in Bangkok blasts; New Year's events canceled

Thai authorities have canceled all major New Year's celebrations in Bangkok after at least seven explosions ripped through several areas of the capital, killing two people, police and hospital officials say.

At least 12 other people were wounded in Sunday's attacks, which appeared to have been coordinated, and took place hours before New Year's Eve celebrations at midnight (noon ET).

Major events in Thailand's second largest city, Chiang Mai, have also been canceled.

Chief government spokesman Yongyud Maiyalab warned people to be cautious but not to panic.

One of the blasts occurred at a mall near the Victory Monument in the center of the Thai capital, Reuters reported.

"There was a big bang and people started screaming and running. I saw people with blood all over their legs and faces," witness Chalermsak Sanbee, 17, told Reuters.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility.