Australian rising athletics star Jemma Stapleton, 25, was killed in a motorcycle crash on Koh Samui, Surat Thani province, after losing control of her bike on a rain-soaked road and sliding into oncoming traffic. The fatal collision occurred on the afternoon of 10 June on Thawirat Phakdi Road near the Lamai Zigzag Curve, a steep and winding section of road known for its challenging conditions.
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CCTV footage released on 13 June captured the moments leading up to the crash. According to investigators, Stapleton’s motorcycle lost traction on the wet surface before sliding across the centre line into the path of an oncoming vehicle. Her body struck one of the vehicles with significant force before sliding along the road.
The motorcycle also continued to slide before coming to rest near another vehicle. At the time of the crash, heavy rain had been falling continuously, leaving the road surface wet and slippery, with water flowing across parts of the carriageway.
Medical personnel from Koh Samui Hospital attended the scene and carried out a preliminary examination. They found severe head injuries and multiple bruises across Stapleton’s body. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police investigations established that Stapleton had been riding ahead of her family, who were travelling behind her on several motorcycles. Family members present included her father, mother, twin brother, younger brother and his girlfriend. The family later informed authorities that they had no concerns regarding the circumstances of her death.
Pictures courtesy of Matichon
Officers from Bo Phut Police Station have gathered evidence from the crash scene, reviewed CCTV footage and interviewed the victim’s family, witnesses and the drivers of the three vehicles involved. Authorities said they will continue examining all evidence before issuing a detailed conclusion on the cause of the incident .
Matichon reported that Stapleton’s death has caused deep sadness among her family, teammates and the Australian athletics community. She was regarded as a promising athlete with a bright future and had previously achieved notable results in national-level competitions in Australia.
Caution video shows the crash
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 14 June 2026
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