Freak Accident: Lithuanian Tourist Killed by Falling Tree in Phuket

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Picture of the accident scene courtesy of Phuket News
 

A Lithuanian man's idyllic holiday turned tragic on Phuket's scenic Nai Thon Beach Road when he was struck and killed by a falling tree while riding his motorbike on March 20th. The victim, Arijus Norkus, a 42-year-old, was travelling along the road when a large pine branch suddenly descended, resulting in his instantaneous death.

 

The incident sent shockwaves through the usually peaceful area, as described by local village headman, Thanapong Keonun, who alerted emergency services at approximately 11:30 am.

 

Upon arriving quickly at the scene, authorities discovered Norkus near his damaged helmet and ruined motorbike. Another tourist, who happened to be riding a grey Honda ADV motorcycle on the same stretch, had a closer brush with fate; his bike suffered damage, but he remained unharmed. "It could have been anyone," a stunned witness reflected, underscoring the randomness of the tragic event.

 

 

 

While forensic teams meticulously documented the accident scene, Norkus's body was transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further examinations. Meanwhile, investigations continue into how such a freak accident occurred, according to reports from The Thaiger.

 

This latest tragedy comes on the heels of another heart-wrenching incident involving a British tourist. His much-anticipated holiday in Phuket turned into a nightmare following a serious accident that has left him in a precarious condition in a Thai hospital.

 

The British victim, identified as restauranteur Ricky Eury, was struck by a Russian tourist riding a motorcycle while he was crossing a road on the bustling island. The collision, involving Sergei Medvedev and his wife Svetlana, who were subsequently arrested, inflicted severe injuries on the 39-year-old from Bristol, including multiple skull fractures and brain bleeding.

 

-- 2025-03-21