Georgealbert

Picture from responders Pol. Lt. Detcharit Sangjunsri, an investigator at Sai Noi Police Station in Nonthaburi Province, received a report at approximately 12.30 on December 16, of an incident involving a large tree branch falling onto a car, causing significant damage and injuring the driver. The incident occurred on Pathum-Bang Len Road, heading towards Bang Len District, near the Khlong Khwang Subdistrict in Sai Noi District. Authorities, including the Ruamkatanyu Foundation rescue team and local officials from the Khlong Khwang Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO), rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, they found a Toyota Cross parked on the roadside with damage, with the front windshield shattered, the roof dented, and the left side mirror broken. The injured driver, later identified as Dr. Dundusit Prarananon, a 56-year-old university lecturer, had already been taken to Sai Noi Hospital. He sustained multiple facial lacerations, including cuts to his face and mouth, but remained conscious and communicative. Approximately 60 metres away from the vehicle, a massive tree branch, 10 metres long, was found lying in the third lane. Witnesses described how strong winds caused the branch to snap, hitting the central road barrier before falling onto the victim’s car, blocking traffic and leaving debris scattered across the road. Mr. Patanachai Waentapthim, a 50-year-old pickup truck driver who was following behind, recounted the harrowing moment. He stated that the tree branch suddenly broke due to strong winds, smashing into the central barrier and landing on the car. He added that Dr. Dundusit suffered head injuries and was bleeding heavily, but remained able to speak despite the ordeal. Further details revealed that Dr. Dundusit was a patient on blood-thinning medication, raising initial concerns about his injuries. However, medical staff confirmed that he was stable and communicating normally. In response to the accident, Mr. Anulak Boonrod, a 42-year-old officer from the Khlong Khwang SAO, reported that his team, comprising five personnel equipped with two chainsaws, had been dispatched to clear the large branch from the road. Authorities are investigating the incident further to determine if additional safety measures or tree cutting is needed to prevent similar incidents. -- 2024-12-17

Fire Destroys Railway Staff Housing in Thonburi; No Casualties Reported A fire broke out early morning at a railway staff housing complex in Thonburi, Soi 6, located in the Siriraj Subdistrict of Bangkok Noi District. The blaze caused significant damage to the two-story wooden buildings, but no injuries or casualties were reported. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346392-fire-destroys-railway-staff-housing-in-thonburi-no-casualties-reported/

Picture from responders. A fire broke out early morning on December 16, at a railway staff housing complex in Thonburi, Soi 6, located in the Siriraj Subdistrict of Bangkok Noi District. The blaze caused significant damage to the two-story wooden buildings, but no injuries or casualties were reported. The fire was reported at 07:20 via the 199 emergency hotline. Firefighters and rescue personnel from the Bang Khun Non Fire Station quickly responded to the scene in the Nikhom Railway Housing area on Sutthawat Road. The building, used as accommodation for staff of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), housed six rooms. The fire is believed to have originated on the upper floor of the house, which was completely destroyed. Firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze after containing it to prevent further spread to neighbouring premises. Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit at an electricity meter located in front of one of the rooms. Fortunately, no one was inside the building at the time of the fire. The SRT have stated that they are working with authorities to investigation the incident, estimate the cost of damages and support those who have lost their homes. -- 2024-12-17

Car Collides with Big Bike, Plunges into Canal: 1 Dead, 1 Seriously Injured Pol. Sub-Lt. Wasukanya Thachipan, an investigator at Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station, received a report of a collision between a car and a big bike, resulting in both vehicles plunging into a canal. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346391-car-collides-with-big-bike-plunges-into-canal-1-dead-1-seriously-injured/

Picture from responders. Pol. Sub-Lt. Wasukanya Thachipan, an investigator at Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station, received a report at 17.30 on December 15, of a collision between a car and a big bike, resulting in both vehicles plunging into a canal. The collision occurred on a local road, beneath Si Mum Mueang Bridge, inbound to Rangsit, Moo 15, Lak Hok Subdistrict, Mueang District, Pathum Thani Province. Emergency responders and a rescue team from Krung Siam St. Carlos Hospital were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found the wreckage of a big bike submerged in water, heavily damaged. A 36-year-old Laotian man, identified as Mr. Phetkaew, was pronounced dead at the scene. Another man, approximately 40 years old, was found seriously injured but without any identification documents. He was rushed to Prachathipat Hospital for treatment. The driver of the car, identified as Mr. Bunshuey 56, admitted to having consumed one bottle of beer prior to the accident. He claimed he could not remember the events leading up to the collision. He only regained awareness after his car had plunged into the water. Mr. Bunshuey stated that he managed to escape by lowering his car window and crawling out. Eyewitness Mr. Khranchit 37, recounted the incident, saying he was on his way to Lak Hok when he saw the car driver lose control and swerve into the motorcycle, which was traveling on the far-left lane. Mr. Khranchit, who captured the incident on his dashboard camera, has handed over the footage to the police as evidence. Police at Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station documented the scene and examined the deceased’s body. Mr. Bunshuey has been taken into custody and was subjected to a breathalyser test. Authorities have contacted the victim’s relatives to arrange collection of the body. Investigation into the incident is ongoing. -- 2024-12-17

Landslide Destroys 3 Houses in Surat Thani: Father Mourns 16-Year-Old Son’s Death A heavy overnight downpour triggered a landslide early morning on December 16, in Surat Thani, collapsing onto three homes and killing a 16-year-old boy in his bedroom. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346390-landslide-destroys 3-houses-in-surat thani-father-mourns-16-year-old-son’s-death/

Picture from responders. A heavy overnight downpour triggered a landslide early morning on December 16, in Surat Thani, collapsing onto three homes and killing a 16-year-old boy in his bedroom. The incident occurred at 04:40 in Moo 2, Wat Pradu Subdistrict, Mueang District, at a row of single-story houses in Surat Villa Village. Rescue workers and local officials responded to reports of a landslide burying a house at 65/53, leaving one person trapped and one injured. Mr. Duangphitak Singkaew, 47, was rescued from the debris, but his 16-year-old son, Mr. Worakit Singkaew, was tragically found dead in the rubble of their bedroom. Rescue workers discovered his body crushed under debris on the bed. He was taken to Surat Thani Hospital for autopsy as his grief-stricken father and neighbours looked on. Preliminary investigations revealed that the landslide destroyed three houses. These houses were located at the base of a slope where a luxury housing project is under construction. The collapse of retaining walls, concrete slabs, and trees caused the debris to inundate bedrooms, rooftops, and kitchens. Mud and water continued to flow down intermittently, prompting local officials to declare the area a danger zone and evacuate nearby residents. Eyewitnesses reported that the slope was originally covered with rubber plantations and forested areas, which helped stabilize the soil. However, ongoing construction to clear the land for new housing has led to repeated landslides. Even without rain, water sometimes flows down from the slope like a small waterfall. On December 14, heavy rains triggered a previous landslide in the same village, damaging houses in Soi 5 and causing injuries. Residents had already reported concerns to the local authorities, urging them to halt construction and address the instability of the slope. Despite these warnings, construction continues. Residents are now calling for a thorough investigation into the construction activities and demanding compensation for the damages. They also insist on stronger action to prevent further tragedies. Meanwhile, heavy rains across Surat Thani continue to cause widespread flooding, displacing residents and inundating homes. Authorities are working urgently to provide assistance and relocate affected residents. -- 2024-12-17

Van Runs Red Light, Crashes into Motorcycle, Killing Rider on the Spot A crash occurred when a van carrying passengers back from a merit-making and meditation trip ran a red light and crashed into a motorcycle, killing the rider instantly. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346389-van-runs-red-light-crashes-into-motorcycle-killing-rider-on-the-spot/

Picture captured from dash-cam. A crash occurred when a van carrying passengers back from a merit-making and meditation trip ran a red light and crashed into a motorcycle, killing the rider instantly. The collision took place at around 23:00 on the night of 15 December at a four-way intersection near the Public Health Office in Suwannaphum District, Roi Et Province. Police Lieutenant Chai Thong Wintachai, Deputy Inspector of Suwannaphum Police Station, was alerted to the incident and coordinated with the on-call doctor from Suwannaphum Hospital and local rescue volunteers to respond to the scene. At the site, a heavily damaged orange Honda motorcycle was found. Nearby lay the body of the rider, identified as Mr. Thawatchai, 29 years old. His face sustained severe injuries. Approximately 40 metres away, a white Toyota Commuter van with license plates from Amnat Charoen Province was parked on the roadside. The van had noticeable damage, including a shattered side passenger window. The driver, Mr. Onchan, 50 years old, admitted to operating the van at the time of the collision. Initial investigations and footage from a dashboard camera of a bystander revealed that Mr. Onchan was driving the van carrying 12 passengers back from a meditation retreat in Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. When approaching the intersection, the van moved into the far-left lane, typically reserved for left turns, and turned on its hazard lights while proceeding straight through the red light. Simultaneously, Mr. Thawatchai was riding his motorcycle through a green light from the left-hand side of the intersection. This led to a violent collision with the left side of the van, resulting in Mr. Thawatchai’s immediate death. Police have taken Mr. Onchan into custody and charged him with reckless driving causing death. Investigations are ongoing. -- 2024-12-17

Yes, but I choose to only post that until the details are confirmed and officially released. The full details are posted in the update above, now more information is available.

Car Crash at Tree Tunnel Near Polo Field Leaves Two Injured Near Pattaya A serious car crash occurred on the morning of December 16, at a tree tunnel near the entrance to the Thai polo field in the Pong subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province. A car driver lost control and crashed into a tree, leaving two individuals trapped inside the vehicle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346328-car-crash-at-tree-tunnel-near-polo-field-leaves-two-injured-near-pattaya/

Picture and video from responders. A serious car crash occurred at approximately 10.15 on December 16, at a tree tunnel near the entrance to the Thai polo field in the Pong subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province. A car driver lost control and crashed into a tree, leaving two individuals trapped inside the vehicle. Rescue volunteers from Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Foundation arrived promptly at the scene to assist. Using specialised equipment, they managed to free both injured individuals from the wreckage. One of the victims, a woman passenger, identified as Ms. Kanyaphat Kasakul, 21, from Chiang Mai, sustained severe injuries and was immediately treated, including CPR, at the scene by an advanced medical team from Bangkok Pattaya Hospital before being transported to the hospital for further care. The second victim, a male Hong Kong national, identified as Mr. Chuk Piu Chiang, 48, the driver, also suffered significant injuries and was taken to the same hospital. Police discovered a Wonderfruit music festival sticker on the car’s windshield, leading to speculation that the couple may have been returning from the event when the driver, Mr. Chiang, possibly fell asleep at the wheel, causing the car to veer off the road and crash into the tree. Authorities are reviewing any possible CCTV to confirm the details. The incident falls under the jurisdiction of Nong Prue Police Station, and authorities are investigating the cause of the crash. The accident has raised concerns over road safety in the area, known for its scenic but potentially hazardous tree-lined roads. -- 2024-12-16 ScreenRecording_12-16-2024 12-35-08_1.mov

Tourist Found Dead Near Koh Phangan’s Hin Song Kon Store Koh Phangan Rescue Centre reported receiving a call at 07.20, on the morning of December 16, from the Koh Phangan Police Station about the death of a tourist near the Hin Song Kon 7-Eleven convenience store. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346324-tourist-found-dead-near-koh-phangan’s-hin-song-kon-store/

Picture from responders Koh Phangan Rescue Centre reported receiving a call at 07.20, on the morning of December 16, from the Koh Phangan Police Station about the death of a tourist near the Hin Song Kon 7-Eleven convenience store. Rescue teams, along with a duty officer from Koh Phangan Police Station and an on-call doctor from Koh Phangan Hospital, immediately rushed to the scene to conduct an investigation. Upon arrival, authorities confirmed the death of the individual and carried out an initial examination at the scene. There were no oblivious signs of a struggle or violence. Following standard procedures, the body was transported to Koh Phangan Hospital for further forensic analysis and autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. The rescue team, under the directive of the investigating officer, has since transferred the deceased’s body to the storage facilities of the local foundation’s office. Authorities are now awaiting further instructions from the embassy to proceed with necessary formalities. The identity of the tourist has not been confirmed, but he was carrying a News South Wales driver’s licence in the name of C Boucher, aged 37. Responders stated that the license picture was very similar to the deceased. No further details surrounding the incident have not been disclosed at this time, pending an ongoing investigation and notification of next of kin. Local authorities have assured full cooperation with the tourist’s embassy to ensure that the situation is handled respectfully and according to international protocols. -- 2024-12-16

Fire Breaks Out at a Home on Koh Samui Authorities in Koh Samui responded to a fire that broke out at a wooden home near the Ocean BBQ restaurant in the Chaweng area. Fortunately, there were no occupants inside the house at the time of the incident, and no injuries have been reported. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346305-fire-breaks-out-at-a-home-on-koh-samui/

Picture and video from responders. Authorities in Koh Samui responded to a fire that broke out at a wooden home near the Ocean BBQ restaurant in the Chaweng area. Fortunately, there were no occupants inside the house at the time of the incident, and no injuries have been reported. Upon receiving the emergency call, the Koh Samui municipal fire department and local rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the scene. Witnesses reported seeing flames and smoke billowing from the property, raising concerns among nearby residents and businesses. Firefighters worked swiftly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring establishments. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Authorities are conducting an investigation to assess the damage and identify the possible source of the fire. Early reports suggest that the fire may have started in the kitchen area of the house, though this has not been confirmed. Local residents expressed relief that the incident did not result in any injuries or fatalities. “It’s fortunate that no one was home, and the firefighters arrived quickly to prevent the fire from spreading,” said a neighbour who witnessed the response. The Chaweng area, a bustling hub of activity known for its restaurants and nightlife, remained relatively unaffected as firefighters successfully controlled the situation. The Ocean BBQ restaurant, located close to the fire, was not damaged. Officials have reminded residents to ensure that electrical systems and cooking appliances are properly maintained to avoid similar incidents in the future. -- 2024-12-16 ScreenRecording_12-15-2024 19-34-17_1.mp4

“Coconut Girls” Brawl Outside Pattaya Police Station In the early hours of December 16, an altercation unfolded outside Pattaya City Police Station, drawing the attention of onlookers and sparking concerns about the city’s tourism image. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346303-“coconut-girls”-brawl-outside-pattaya-police-station/

Picture from bystanders posted online. In the early hours of December 16, an altercation unfolded outside Pattaya City Police Station, drawing the attention of onlookers and sparking concerns about the city’s tourism image. At approximately 01:45, a group of scantily clad women, commonly nicknamed the “Coconut Girls”, for their frequent presence under coconut trees along the beachfront, engaged in a heated physical fight. Two women estimated to be aged 40–50, were seen pulling hair, slapping, and yelling at each other near the beach, ignoring the pleas of bystanders and the watchful eyes of tourists. The incident, captured on video by several witnesses, escalated further when the women turned their fury toward those recording the altercation. They loudly threatened legal action against anyone who published the footage and brazenly declared they would “continue the fight tomorrow” if they encountered their rival again. The exact cause of the conflict remains unclear. The women involved are part of a group known for gathering under coconut trees near the beach, where they often dress provocatively, occupy chairs, and call out to foreign tourists looking for cheap fun. Their behavior has earned them the nickname “Coconut Girls” or “Coconut Tree Ghosts” from locals. Despite repeated crackdowns by authorities, the group resurfaces once police presence diminishes, drawing criticism for tarnishing Pattaya’s image as a tourist destination. The brawl outside the police station has further intensified these concerns, with many expressing frustration over the group’s disruptive behaviour and negative impact on the city’s reputation. Following the altercation, officers from Pattaya City Police Station intervened and brought both parties in for questioning. They were fined and issued warnings about their behaviour, with police emphasising the need to maintain order and preserve the city’s image. Authorities have pledged to increase patrols in the area to prevent further incidents and ensure that Pattaya continues to be a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. -- 2024-12-16

12-Year-Old Girl Injured in Amusement Ride Fall, Ride Owner Vows Responsibility Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 12-year-old girl sustained severe injuries after falling from a spinning octopus amusement ride at a winter fair in Nong Sarai, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. The incident occurred on the evening of December 14. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346299-12-year-old-girl-injured-in-amusement-ride-fall-ride-owner-vows-responsibility/

Picture courtesy of Matichon A 12-year-old girl sustained severe injuries after falling from a spinning octopus amusement ride at a winter fair in Nong Sarai, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. The incident occurred on the evening of December 14. According to police investigator Pol. Capt. Sirisan Chantaphakdee from Pak Chong Police Station, the girl suffered multiple injuries, including a fractured rib, spinal fractures at two levels, and pneumothorax (air in the chest cavity). Emergency responders from the Sawang Wichatharmmasathan Foundation administered first aid at the scene before transferring her to Pak Chong Nana Hospital for further treatment. Following the incident, the district chief and officials inspected the amusement ride and ordered the event organisers to enforce stricter safety measures to prevent future incidents. The ride owner, Mr. Naruet, and the event organiser, Ms. Laongkaew, visited the injured girl at the hospital. They expressed regret over the incident and pledged to cover all medical expenses. Additionally, both provided the family with a monetary contribution as compensation. The President of the Khao Yai Lions Club, who helped organise the winter fair, also visited the girl, offering a gift basket and financial assistance. The injured girl’s 15-year-old sister recounted the incident: She and her siblings, along with friends, had boarded the spinning octopus ride. Four of them, including the injured girl, were seated at the same car on the ride. However, the safety bar was not properly locked when the operator started the ride. Despite their attempts to alert the staff by shouting and raising their hands, the ride continued to spin for 2–3 rounds. The sister managed to hold onto the safety bar with one hand and her sister with the other. However, the injured girl, unable to maintain her grip fell approximately three metres to the ground. The sister herself fell onto the metal mesh platform of the ride. The director of Pak Chong Nana Hospital issued a statement confirming the girl’s injuries. After emergency treatment, including inserting a chest drain to relieve the pneumothorax, the girl was reported to be conscious and able to communicate. However, she remains hospitalised for close monitoring and further care. The ride operator and owner have been summoned for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation. -- 2024-12-16

Fire Breaks Out at Condo in Ekkamai Soi 6, Bangkok A fire erupted late night on December 15, at Pasana Garden Condominium in Ekkamai Soi 6, Phra Khanong Nuea Subdistrict, Wattana District, Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346297-fire-breaks-out-at-condo-in-ekkamai-soi-6-bangkok/

Picture from responders A fire erupted late night on December 15, at Pasana Garden Condominium in Ekkamai Soi 6, Phra Khanong Nuea Subdistrict, Wattana District, Bangkok. The blaze began at around 23:30 on the second floor of the 21-story residential building. The fire originated in the electrical control room, completely destroying the electrical control cabinets and damaging the area. Firefighters from the Bang Kapi Fire and Rescue Station quickly extinguished the flames using water suppression methods, from two hose-line. Initial investigations suggest that the fire was caused by an explosion from a leaking gas cylinder, which ignited, in the building’s backup generator room. One male foreign national, who is bedridden, sustained injuries from smoke inhalation after smoke had spread to his unit and he was unable to self evacuate the unit. Volunteer first responders provided treatment at the scene, and the injured party declined further medical assistance or hospitalisation. Authorities secured the area, and further investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fire. This incident falls under the jurisdiction of the Bang Kapi Fire and Rescue Station. -- 2024-12-16

UPDATE Construction Workers Found Dead After Landslide on Koh Samui In an incident on Koh Samui, Surat Thani, a landslide caused by heavy rain buried the makeshift shelters of construction workers, leaving two men from Myanmar missing. The workers were stationed at a site where four vacation homes were being constructed, located on a hillside in Soi Hima Thong, Moo 1, Ma Reet Subdistrict. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346256-landslide-buries-workers’-camp-on-koh-samui-two-missing/#findComment-19449429

UPDATE Construction Workers Found Dead After Landslide on Koh Samui Picture from responders. In an incident on Koh Samui, Surat Thani, a landslide caused by heavy rain buried the makeshift shelters of construction workers, leaving two men from Myanmar missing. The workers were stationed at a site where four vacation homes were being constructed, located on a hillside in Soi Hima Thong, Moo 1, Ma Reet Subdistrict. The landslide struck early in the morning, around 04:00 on December 15. After a search of over 10 hours, rescue teams, including local authorities, military personnel, and construction workers, managed to dig through the mud and debris. At 15:30 they discovered the bodies of the two missing workers buried beneath more than a metre of soil. The deceased workers bodies, identified as Mr. Aung Ko Ko, age 19, and Mr. Mo Set, age 39, were retrieved and sent for examination at Koh Samui Hospital. The recovery operation faced significant challenges due to ongoing heavy rainfall, which raised the risk of further landslides, complicating the search and rescue operations. -- 2024-12-16

Kite Incident: 7-Year-Old Boy Struck and Killed by Rice Harvester Truck in Buriram A 7-year-old boy lost his life in an incident involving a trailer carrying a rice harvester in Khuean Dan village, Khok Sawang Subdistrict, Nong Ki District, Buriram Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346296-kite-incident-7-year-old-boy-struck-and-killed-by-rice-harvester-truck-in-buriram/