Police in Patong, Phuket, are searching for a tuk-tuk driver after a 29-year-old British tourist was found seriously injured on a road near his hotel in the early hours of 14 June 2026.
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The injured man was identified as Colin Kearney, a British national staying at a hotel in the Kalim Beach area of Patong. At approximately 4.10am, Phuket Kusoldharm Foundation rescue workers attended the scene and took him to Patong Hospital after he was discovered lying on Phra Barami Road, near a pedestrian crossing, with a head injury.
Following the report from Patong Hospital, investigators informed Pol Col Korakrit Khankhruea, superintendent of Patong Police Station, who attended the scene and monitored the tourist’s condition. Medical staff later transfered Kearney to Vachira Phuket Hospital as his condition was described as critical.
Initial inquiries found that Kearney had taken a red tuk-tuk back to his hotel before the incident. A dispute arose over the fare because he did not have cash available. He then left the hotel in the same vehicle to withdraw money from an ATM in order to pay the driver.
Police reviewing CCTV footage identified the vehicle as a Phuket-registered tuk-tuk. Hotel security staff had also recorded details of the vehicle when it arrived at the property. Investigators believe the driver left the hotel, turned towards Kamala and may have been heading to an ATM.
Further CCTV footage showed the tuk-tuk travelling back towards Patong at around 4.02am. The vehicle reportedly passed The Nature hotel without turning in to drop off the passenger and was seen travelling at speed before Kearney fell from the vehicle and suffered serious injuries.
Police officers later visited the hospital to assess the victim’s condition while doctors continued emergency treatment. Investigators have submitted a request for medical examination documents for an official assessment of the injuries.
The case has prompted a wider investigation by Patong Police, with detectives gathering evidence and examining the precise circumstances that led to the incident. Officers are also working to locate and question the tuk-tuk driver and if any other individuals are connected to the case.
The Daily News reported that authorities have not yet determined the exact cause of the incident. The investigation remains ongoing as police continue reviewing evidence and preparing possible legal action against those found to be involved.
Picture courtesy of Daily News
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 15 June 2026