Pictures courtesy of เช็กข่าวพัทยา

A 59-year-old Swedish tourist has died after drowning while swimming at Ban Amphur beach in Chonburi province, despite attempts by bystanders to resuscitate him. The incident occurred at approximately 1.30pm on 4 January 2026 at Somprasong Beach, Ban Amphur, in Najomtien sub-district, Sattahip district.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Montien Kadudom, an investigating officer at Najomtien Police Station, was notified of the incident and led officers to the scene alongside rescue workers from the Sawang Rojanathammasathan Sattahip Foundation. Upon arrival, they found foreign tourists and members of the public assisting an unconscious man on the beach.

The victim was later identified as Mr Stefan Peter Karsal, aged 59, a Swedish national. He was found wearing swimming attire and showed no signs of consciousness. Bystanders at the scene attempted cardiopulmonary resuscitation, but were unable to revive him and he was pronounced dead at the location.

According to a woman described as a close companion of the deceased, the pair had travelled to the beach for leisure and swimming. Prior to entering the sea, Mr Karsal had consumed alcoholic beverages, specifically beer, before going into the water. It was during this period that the fatal incident occurred.

Police conducted a preliminary examination of the scene, documenting evidence and interviewing witnesses who were present at the time. No immediate signs of foul play were reported, and the incident is being treated as an accidental drowning pending further confirmation.

The body has been transferred to the Forensic Medicine Institute at Police General Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the precise cause of death. Authorities have also coordinated with the Swedish Embassy to inform the victim’s relatives and arrange for the repatriation of his body for funeral rites.

Local officials reiterated the importance of beach safety, particularly for tourists unfamiliar with local sea conditions. Alcohol consumption prior to swimming remains a recognised risk factor in drowning incidents, especially in open water environments.

The investigation will conclude once forensic results are returned, after which police will finalise the case report. Embassy officials are expected to assist the family with necessary documentation and procedures in the coming days.

Key Takeaways

• A 59-year-old Swedish tourist died after drowning at Ban Amphur beach on 4 January 2026.

• Bystanders attempted CPR, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

• The body was sent for forensic examination, and the Swedish Embassy has been notified.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from เช็กข่าวพัทยา 2026-01-05

 

 

8 minutes ago, Georgealbert said:

Prior to entering the sea, Mr Karsal had consumed alcoholic beverages, specifically beer, before going into the water

Yep, not a good mix, swimming in the bay and alcohol.

So, this time it´s one of my countrymen, a Swede, who think it a great idea to get drunk and swim. Stupid guys win a one on one with the reaper.

Troll post removed @FrankieGoesToHolly This is the news section.

Just as likely the guy died of a heart attack, and it happened to be after a couple of cold ones, while exerting himself on a swim.

Really heartbreaking, especially with something like alcohol involved. It's tragic that so many millions of people think drinking is harmless and without consequences. I'm 69 and grateful that my reckless drinking days are behind me.

7 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

Police General Hospital for a post-mortem examination

Hope they post the blood alcohol concentration, for informational purposes. Until then it's possible that drinking was not the immediate cause - could have been a medical condition like a heart attack. But very likely everyone in his group were equally drunk or maybe someone would have noticed he was in trouble. If CPR wouldn't save him he must have either died in the water, or laid on the beach for too long before help came. People, take a moment to be glad you're alive and don't open yourselves to risks, especially when you're older. Happy New Year

Sad tale. Do hope people learn from this.