An 83-year-old Swedish man lost control of his pickup truck and crashed through a barrier at a Jomtien beach viewpoint, Pratumnak Soi 5, in Chon Buri on 12 April 2026, injuring a foreign tourist and damaging parked motorcycles. The vehicle accelerated suddenly, struck two motorcycles and plunged down to the beach area below. Debris from the crash, including metal railings and vehicle parts, was scattered across the scene.
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The incident occurred at the seaside viewpoint during the Songkran holiday, when large numbers of Thai and foreign tourists were present. Witnesses reported hearing the engine rev loudly before the vehicle sped into the area. One tourist was injured after being hit by a dislodged metal barrier and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Police identified the driver as Mr Hans Peterkogler and confirmed he was suffering chest pain following the crash. Officers suspect that an underlying medical condition may have caused him to lose control, as a pacemaker device was found on the left side of his chest. The driver was not able to provide a clear statement at the scene.
Pictures courtesy of Amarin
A 30-year-old woman, Kaewkanlaya, whose motorcycle was among those damaged, said her foreign boyfriend had been standing at the viewpoint, waiting to watchi the sunset when the vehicle suddenly accelerated and struck him. She described hearing a loud engine noise moments before the impact.
Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the area and interviewing witnesses to establish the exact cause of the crash. Investigations will also examine whether the driver experienced a medical emergency or loss of consciousness while driving. The condition of the vehicle and other contributing factors are being assessed.
Police said further updates will follow once the investigation is complete, including any legal or medical findings related to the driver’s condition and responsibility for the crash.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 13 Apr 2026
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