Police in Phuket are investigating the death of a British tourist whose body was found in a concrete drainage system near Bang Tao Beach on March 14. The victim, identified as Jordan Wright, was discovered face-down in stagnant water at around 12.30pm by a Myanmar worker harvesting vegetables in the area, who immediately alerted authorities. Officers say the circumstances surrounding the death remain unclear.

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When police arrived, Wright was barefoot and wearing a grey shirt and black trousers. His body had begun to bloat, suggesting it had been submerged for some time. Investigators found his iPhone on the bank nearby, while a hotel key card discovered in his pocket linked him to Hotel COCO Phuket Bangtao.

Police said Wright had checked into the hotel alone and was scheduled to check out on March 13, but staff later reported that he never returned to the property. CCTV footage reportedly showed the tourist appearing restless outside the hotel shortly before leaving the premises. His movements on camera later appeared to lead toward the area where his body was eventually discovered.

Initial police examinations found no visible signs of assault on the body. Officers also searched Wright’s hotel room and reported no indications of forced entry, disturbance, or suspicious activity.

Authorities said the case is being treated as an unexplained death while investigations continue. Police are working to piece together Wright’s final movements and determine how he ended up in the area near the beach.

Officials have also been in contact with relevant authorities as part of standard procedures when foreign nationals die in Thailand. Cases involving tourists involve coordination with embassies and local officials while investigations proceed.

The body has been sent to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a full post-mortem examination. Investigators say the autopsy will determine the exact cause of death and whether drugs or other substances may have played a role. Police said further details will depend on the results of the autopsy and ongoing enquiries.

Picture courtesy of SpeedNews

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Adapted by ASEAN Now SpeedNews 17 Mar 2026

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The way that looks he could have tripped in the dark, smacked his head, out. RIP, bad luck!

Probably went for a toilet break and stumbled into the drain hitting his head on way down and then possibly drowned if knock didn't kill him.

3 hours ago, ronster said:

Probably went for a toilet break and stumbled into the drain hitting his head on way down and then possibly drowned if knock didn't kill him.

Highly plausible explanation - a sad end to his life - RIP

Look out for the canal full of water Andy!

UPDATE

UK Reality TV Star Jordan Wright Dies in Phuket at 33