Man Dies After Falling into Wastewater Pit in Samut Prakan

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture from responders.

 

A 30-year-old man lost his life after falling into a wastewater treatment pit and inhaling toxic H2S gas, in front of his friend on the night of 23 March.

 

According to reports, the incident occurred at around 22:00 near a tannery in Soi 16, Tambon Tai Ban, Samut Prakan. The victim, identified as Sarawut, had been driving a Nissan Navara pickup truck when he lost control, colliding with a pavement and getting stuck on a sewer pit covering.

 

 

While waiting for a tow truck, Sarawut reportedly moved to the passenger seat and reclined to rest. At some point, he opened the passenger-side door, unaware that it was positioned directly above the damaged sewer coverings. As he stepped out, he fell into the pit, which contained wastewater from the tannery and emitted strong hydrogen sulfide fumes.

 

His friend, Banchaa 45, recounted the horrifying moment, stating that Sarawut initially remained conscious and reached out for help. However, within seconds, he appeared to lose consciousness, likely due to inhaling the toxic fumes, and sank beneath the wastewater.

 

Emergency response teams, including rescue divers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, arrived at the scene and conducted a cautious operation due to the hazardous conditions. Ventilation tubingwas inserted into the pit, with a fan to increase oxygen levels before divers, equipped with protective suits and breathing apparatus, descended to search for the body. After approximately 15 minutes, Sarawut’s lifeless body was retrieved from beneath the sludge.

 

Police investigations revealed that Sarawut, an electrician working in Rangsit, had been drinking earlier in the evening before setting off with Banchaa and a migrant worker to return to Pathum Thani. Unfamiliar with the route, he used Google Maps for navigation but lost control of the vehicle at the accident site.

 

Authorities have taken Banchaa in for further questioning at Muang Samut Prakan Police Station to establish the full circumstances of the incident.

 

-- 2025-03-25