Four men have died after entering a 6-metre-deep well in Kuraburi district, Phang Nga, with initial attempts of rescue, also overcome while attempting to help. Authorities believe either a lack of oxygen or the build-up of toxic gases caused the fatalities. Two additional people narrowly survived after being pulled out in time.
Get today's headlines by email 
The incident occurred at around 11.30am on 26 April 2026 in a palm oil plantation in Moo 11, Ban Saeng Tham, tambon Kura. According to the Phang Nga Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, two villagers had entered the well to dismantle and clean it when they lost consciousness.
The deceased were named as Suthon Kongkaew, 42; Suthat, 34; Theeradon Chueasanga, 30; and Wahab Chueasanga, 51. All were local workers and residents. Officials said two of the men first entered the well and collapsed, prompting two other workers to go down to assist, only to suffer the same fate. A fifth individual descended using a rope but signalled distress after experiencing symptoms and was pulled to safety.
Rescue teams with specialised equipment were deployed after initial attempts to recover the victims by fellow workers failed due to low oxygen levels and confined space conditions. A first rescue worker, also entered to attempt a fast snatch rescue, but was quickly retrieved before losing consciousness.
Picture courtesy of Daily News
Recovery of the four bodies required coordination between multiple rescue units, including teams from Ranong, Surat Thani, and Takua Pa. Rescue teams used ventilation fans and breathing apparatus to reach the bodies safely.
Local residents reported that the well had been unused for years, raising the possibility of accumulated toxic gases such as hydrogen sulphide. Authorities have warned that confined spaces like wells can rapidly become fatal environments without proper ventilation and protective equipment.
Daily News reported that officials said a full investigation will be carried out to confirm the exact cause of death. The tragedy has deeply affected the local community, with families mourning the sudden loss of the victims.
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 27 Apr 2026