Australian sprinter Jemma Stapleton has died while on a family holiday on Koh Samui, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the athletics community and widespread support for her family. Stapleton, from Melbourne, was 25 years old and had celebrated her birthday on June 1, shortly before her death. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

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Stapleton was a prominent figure in Victorian athletics and was a finalist in the Stawell Gift, one of Australia’s most prestigious running races. She finished third in the 2025 Stawell Gift and reached the final again in 2026. She was travelling in Thailand with close family members at the time of her death.

Her passing was first reported while the family was still overseas. A GoFundMe campaign established to assist with repatriating her body raised almost A$100,000 by Friday 12 June 2026. The fundraiser described the family as facing “immeasurable grief” following her sudden death abroad.

Tributes have been paid by family members, friends and organisations across the athletics community. In a video tribute provided to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), her brother Joel Stapleton said she had been more than a sister and described her as his best friend and a constant source of support.

“For those that knew her, you know how lucky you were to have her in your life. Her smile was so bright that wherever she went you knew she was there,” Joel said. He added that he was grateful to call her his sister.

Her partner, Tyler Gray, also shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, describing Stapleton as the greatest thing to happen to him and saying he was struggling to come to terms with the loss. Former coach Mark Thomas said he was shocked by the news and remembered her as one of his favourite athletes to coach.

The Victorian Athletic League described Stapleton as a valued member of the community whose presence left a lasting impact. Athletics Australia remembered her as a “beautiful, bright and warm personality who was always smiling”, adding that she brought positivity wherever she went. Colleagues from her work as a childcare worker also praised her kindness and support.

The Daily Mail reported that the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was providing consular assistance to the family. Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances surrounding Stapleton’s death and it remains publicly unclear how she died while on holiday in Thailand.

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Sad story.

Mindblowingly gorgeous athletic legs.

Looks like she crashed on scooter.

UPDATE

Jemma Stapleton Dies in Thailand Motorcycle Crash

Picture courtesy of 7News

Victorian athlete and Stawell Gift finalist Jemma Stapleton has died following a motorcycle crash in Thailand while on a family holiday. The 25-year-old was travelling with her parents and brothers when the fatal incident occurred. The exact circumstances of the crash remain unclear.

Stapleton’s coach, Craig Mair, revealed the athlete had ambitious plans for both her sporting career and personal life. He said she had spoken about buying a house, getting married and having children. Mair said she believed 2026 would be her year and that she was considered a genuine chance of winning the Stawell Gift by 2028.

Her brother Joel wrote: “Rest in peace, I love you so much. I promise I’ll make you proud. You were the best sister and my best friend. I’ll forever miss you. Rest easy.”

Teammate Charlotte Nielsen remembered Stapleton as a caring and positive presence at training sessions. Speaking at the Doncaster athletics track, she said Stapleton was “so lovely, so beautiful, so bubbly” and was especially caring towards children, often helping look after teammates’ babies.

Stapleton also worked as an educator at Kool Kidz Rowville. In a statement, the childcare centre described her as a “beloved member” of the community and a “cherished educator”. The centre said staff were informed of her death on Thursday afternoon and that details remained limited.

7News reported that authorities have not released further information regarding the circumstances of the motorcycle crash. The athletics community, colleagues and family continue to mourn her loss as arrangements are made to bring her home.

Adapted by ASEAN Now 7news 12 June 2026

UPDATE

Police Probe Crash That Killed Australian Runner in Samui

Police have provided an update on the fatal crash that claimed the life of promising Australian runner Jemma Stapleton on Koh Samui, saying investigations are continuing and it is too early to determine who was at fault.

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The crash occurred on 10 June at the Zigzag Curve area of Lamai in Bo Phut subdistrict, Koh Samui district. Ms Jemma Stapleton, 25, an Australian tourist and rising athletics talent, died at the scene.

According to Pol Maj Gen Suwat Suksri, commander of Surat Thani Provincial Police, the collision involved three vehicles. Investigators found that Ms Stapleton’s motorcycle crashed and she was thrown from the vehicle, with her body becoming trapped beneath a Ford Ranger pickup truck driven by 38-year-old Russian national Yuri Korolevsky.

A third vehicle, a Honda City driven by 27-year-old Thailand national, Waraporn, was also present at the scene. Police described the incident as a complex multi-vehicle collision and are examining how the sequence of events unfolded.

Investigators have already questioned the drivers involved as well as witnesses. However, police said further analysis is required before any conclusions can be reached regarding responsibility for the crash.

Authorities are awaiting detailed findings from forensic specialists, including examinations of collision marks and environmental evidence collected at the scene by the forensic science division. The results will be incorporated into the investigation file.

Police stressed that they have not yet determined whether negligence by any party caused the fatal crash. Officials said all available evidence will be reviewed before any findings are made.

Daily News reported that Tthe death of Ms Stapleton has attracted significant attention in both Thailand and Australia due to her status as a talented young athlete. The ongoing investigation is expected to clarify the circumstances leading to the crash.

Picture courtesy of Daily News

Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 13 June 2026

14 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

Australian sprinter Jemma Stapleton has died while on a family holiday on Koh Samui, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the athletics community and widespread support for her family. Stapleton, from Melbourne, was 25 years old and had celebrated her birthday on June 1, shortly before her death. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Get today's headlines by email

Stapleton was a prominent figure in Victorian athletics and was a finalist in the Stawell Gift, one of Australia’s most prestigious running races. She finished third in the 2025 Stawell Gift and reached the final again in 2026. She was travelling in Thailand with close family members at the time of her death.

Her passing was first reported while the family was still overseas. A GoFundMe campaign established to assist with repatriating her body raised almost A$100,000 by Friday 12 June 2026. The fundraiser described the family as facing “immeasurable grief” following her sudden death abroad.

Tributes have been paid by family members, friends and organisations across the athletics community. In a video tribute provided to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), her brother Joel Stapleton said she had been more than a sister and described her as his best friend and a constant source of support.

“For those that knew her, you know how lucky you were to have her in your life. Her smile was so bright that wherever she went you knew she was there,” Joel said. He added that he was grateful to call her his sister.

Her partner, Tyler Gray, also shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, describing Stapleton as the greatest thing to happen to him and saying he was struggling to come to terms with the loss. Former coach Mark Thomas said he was shocked by the news and remembered her as one of his favourite athletes to coach.

The Victorian Athletic League described Stapleton as a valued member of the community whose presence left a lasting impact. Athletics Australia remembered her as a “beautiful, bright and warm personality who was always smiling”, adding that she brought positivity wherever she went. Colleagues from her work as a childcare worker also praised her kindness and support.

The Daily Mail reported that the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was providing consular assistance to the family. Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances surrounding Stapleton’s death and it remains publicly unclear how she died while on holiday in Thailand.

Pictures courtesy of Daily Mail

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailymail 12 June 2026

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15 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

Australian sprinter Jemma Stapleton has died while on a family holiday on Koh Samui, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the athletics community and widespread support for her family. Stapleton, from Melbourne, was 25 years old and had celebrated her birthday on June 1, shortly before her death. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Get today's headlines by email

Stapleton was a prominent figure in Victorian athletics and was a finalist in the Stawell Gift, one of Australia’s most prestigious running races. She finished third in the 2025 Stawell Gift and reached the final again in 2026. She was travelling in Thailand with close family members at the time of her death.

Her passing was first reported while the family was still overseas. A GoFundMe campaign established to assist with repatriating her body raised almost A$100,000 by Friday 12 June 2026. The fundraiser described the family as facing “immeasurable grief” following her sudden death abroad.

Tributes have been paid by family members, friends and organisations across the athletics community. In a video tribute provided to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), her brother Joel Stapleton said she had been more than a sister and described her as his best friend and a constant source of support.

“For those that knew her, you know how lucky you were to have her in your life. Her smile was so bright that wherever she went you knew she was there,” Joel said. He added that he was grateful to call her his sister.

Her partner, Tyler Gray, also shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, describing Stapleton as the greatest thing to happen to him and saying he was struggling to come to terms with the loss. Former coach Mark Thomas said he was shocked by the news and remembered her as one of his favourite athletes to coach.

The Victorian Athletic League described Stapleton as a valued member of the community whose presence left a lasting impact. Athletics Australia remembered her as a “beautiful, bright and warm personality who was always smiling”, adding that she brought positivity wherever she went. Colleagues from her work as a childcare worker also praised her kindness and support.

The Daily Mail reported that the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was providing consular assistance to the family. Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances surrounding Stapleton’s death and it remains publicly unclear how she died while on holiday in Thailand.

Pictures courtesy of Daily Mail

Join the discussion?

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailymail 12 June 2026

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To take her ashes home is not expensive. Just a regular flight.

No #gofundme necessary.

And many young people died in Ukraine, Gaza or Iran.

Without #gofundme!

Very Sad that she passed away. I doubt that even if she had insurance, which her parents should have made sure that they all did, it probably wouldn’t have covered her because it was on a motorcycle. I’m also surprised at how much the airlines charge for sending someone, who has passed already, home. I had no clue that it would be that expense. I’d love to know how much and how the airlines would charge so much for a terrible tragedy like this to bring them home.

5 minutes ago, jcmj said:

I’m also surprised at how much the airlines charge for sending someone, who has passed already, home. I had no clue that it would be that expense. I’d love to know how much and how the airlines would charge so much for a terrible tragedy like this to bring them home.

I reckon Ai would be surpised at the aud 100k cost too !

Samui roads most dangerous in Thailand I believe

Very very sad. Unfortunately foreign riders aren't prepared for the chaos of Thai roads. Even experienced riders take time to become used to Thai driving style. Tourist areas are especially dangerous because a lot of foreigners drive like the rules don't apply to them.

Head crushed beneath the car? No helmet?

34 minutes ago, jcmj said:

I’m also surprised at how much the airlines charge for sending someone, who has passed already, home. I had no clue that it would be that expense. I’d love to know how much and how the airlines would charge so much for a terrible tragedy like this to bring them home.

The cost is not an issue that airlines should overly concern themselves with. The body is just freight that requires special handling and documentation. You want it, you pay for it, personally, I don't see the point of the expense. As another poster said, ashes are easy.

5 minutes ago, Doctor Tom said:

The cost is not an issue that airlines should overly concern themselves with. The body is just freight that requires special handling and documentation. You want it, you pay for it, personally, I don't see the point of the expense. As another poster said, ashes are easy.

A friend of mine's father died here. Was cremated and taken back to UK in hand luggage.

Tragic story and a beautiful woman lost under the all too familiar situation of riding a motorbike when shouldn't have been and not understanding just how dangerous these roads are, especially on the island tourist places. Again, careless negligence to ride a motorbike here if you have no licence and are not used to riding one in your home country... one of the biggest consistant mistakes foreigners make here. I've lived here a very long time and wouldn't even consider riding a motorbike, even though I can, only four wheeled transport for me.

Yet another sad case proving that old saw Only the good die young...

Motorbikes are not toys to be played with in TH.

When I see these accidents and serious injuries involving motorcycles here, I always wonder did they have a motorcycle licence? did they EVER even ride a motorcycle in their homeland? - I bet the answer in many cases is NO.

We all know how lethal Thai roads can be, even for those with experience, but to allow them loose with nothing is just wrong!

There should be more accountability for the people who rent these things out. Make them ensure the rider has at least an appropriate licence and adequate insurance.

R.I .P ,most beautiful lady had her whole life in front of her.

10 minutes ago, CharlieH said:

When I see these accidents and serious injuries involving motorcycles here, I always wonder did they have a motorcycle licence? did they EVER even ride a motorcycle in their homeland? - I bet the answer in many cases is NO.

We all know how lethal Thai roads can be, even for those with experience, but to allow them loose with nothing is just wrong!

There should be more accountability for the people who rent these things out. Make them ensure the rider has at least an appropriate licence and adequate insurance.

An estimated 70% have no motorbike license and limited experience. She could rent a 50cc back home without a license but not a 125cc. Helmets is another thing many don't wear. Samui and Phuket hospitals get lots of farangs there from bike accidents. The warnings have been around for 30 years but people don't listen.

4 minutes ago, Rockyroad said:

She could rent a 50cc back home

I know this is true in the UK but is it possible in Oz?

15 minutes ago, SAFETY FIRST said:

I know this is true in the UK but is it possible in Oz?

Depends on the state. Qld classifies a 50cc machine as a moped. Car licence is fine. In some states you need a motorbike licence. Scooters are easy to ride but people with no experience need 3 or 4 hours practice in a quiet area first.

That was just reported on our Australian news tonight. So very sad.

Just an observation ... not expensive repatriation shipping cost <10k AUD vs 100k AUD from 'go fund me'

5 minutes ago, KhunLA said:

Just an observation ... not expensive repatriation shipping cost <10k AUD vs 100k AUD from 'go fund me'

Gofundme is a scam I reckon.

36 minutes ago, Rockyroad said:

Gofundme is a scam I reckon.

I suspect many are, the they've be scrutinized for it in the past, along with a bit of platform profiting. Don't want to go off topic, but anyone interested, can simply Google ... "go fund me controversy "

They will shut down & refund to donors, if they suspect a campaign is a scam.

Sadly all to often: scooter injuries / death, no Ins. coverage, go fund me.

R I P

There is negligence somewhere in this case...People don't lose their life on the road w/o it...unless killed by lightning or a landslide or a wild elephant...

If the investigation finds fault, then say so...Turn this into a case study to prevent others from dying

4 minutes ago, KhunLA said:

I suspect many are, the they've be scrutinized for it in the past, along with a bit of platform profiting. Don't want to go off topic, but anyone interested, can simply Google ... "go fund me controversy "

They will shut down & refund to donors, if they suspect a campaign is a scam.

Sadly all to often: scooter injuries / death, no Ins. coverage, go fund me.

R I P

Funeral and flights 20,000. They pocket 80,000. Or they could cremate in Thailand and pocket more.

16 minutes ago, KhunLA said:

I suspect many are, the they've be scrutinized for it in the past, along with a bit of platform profiting. Don't want to go off topic, but anyone interested, can simply Google ... "go fund me controversy "

They will shut down & refund to donors, if they suspect a campaign is a scam.

Sadly all to often: scooter injuries / death, no Ins. coverage, go fund me.

R I P

Insurance won't pay if no motorbike licence. Lonely Planet guides warned about Samui roads but nobody reads them anymore.

1 minute ago, Rockyroad said:

Insurance won't pay if no motorbike licence. Lonely Planet guides warned about Samui roads but nobody reads them anymore.

That should really be common knowledge for most folks that travel, as gets plenty of press, thankfully, when things do go wrong.

1 minute ago, KhunLA said:

That should really be common knowledge for most folks that travel, as gets plenty of press, thankfully, when things do go wrong.

Bogans love Samui, Phuket and Bali. They don't use common sense. The hospitals would get daily patients from bike accidents. No cure for stupid.

4 hours ago, golli said:

Very very sad. Unfortunately foreign riders aren't prepared for the chaos of Thai roads. Even experienced riders take time to become used to Thai driving style. Tourist areas are especially dangerous because a lot of foreigners drive like the rules don't apply to them.

The first thing that shocked me was the number of motorcyclists (and cars) that overtake on the inside - Thai driving style!