PHUKET– A tragic road accident in Phuket claimed two lives on Saturday evening after a heavily intoxicated driver plowed into several motorcycles. Police arrested the suspect at the scene after his blood alcohol level measured nearly five times the legal limit.
Local authorities confirmed that two victims died from severe injuries at Thalang Hospital shortly after the crash occurred. Three other individuals suffered varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Key Takeaways
- Who:Aung Min Oo, a 42-year-old Myanmar national, crashed his pickup truck into local motorists, killing Thanawich Inkaew (24) and Mariam (45).
- What:A violent multi-vehicle crash caused by a heavily intoxicated driver who struck a moving motorcycle and three parked bikes.
- Where:The accident happened on the entrance road to Ton Sai Waterfall in Thep Krasattri, Thalang District, Phuket.
- When:The incident occurred around 7:30 PM on July 25, 2026, with fatalities confirmed later that evening.
- Why:The driver lost control of his vehicle due to extreme alcohol consumption, recording a blood alcohol content of 239 mg%.
According to an official report published by Thairath , the crash started when the black Suzuki pickup truck crossed lanes into oncoming traffic. The vehicle struck 24-year-old Thanawich Inkaew head-on as he was riding toward the local waterfall.
Instead of stopping to help, the driver attempted to speed away from the initial collision site. He drove approximately 100 meters down the road before completely losing control of the vehicle.
The speeding pickup then swerved off the road and slammed directly into three motorcycles parked outside a roadside store. The violent impact hit several bystanders who were standing nearby, scattering debris across the roadway.
Offender Tested Extremely High for Alcohol
Police officers from the Thalang Police Station arrived quickly at the scene to secure the area and assist the injured. Investigating officer Pol. Maj. Niwat Timkaew noted that the driver appeared severely impaired and smelled strongly of alcohol.
Officers took the suspect into custody and administered a blood alcohol test right away. The test revealed a staggering blood alcohol content of 239 mg%, far exceeding Thailand’s legal driving limit of 50 mg%.
Medical responders rushed five injured people to Thalang Hospital for emergency treatment. Sadly, hospital staff reported that Thanawich Inkaew and 45-year-old Mariam succumbed to their severe injuries later that night.
Police Chief Pol. Col. Nikorn Chuthong confirmed that investigators are gathering all available physical evidence and CCTV footage. Authorities plan to press multiple heavy criminal charges against Aung Min Oo, including reckless driving causing death and driving under the influence.
Residents expressed deep shock and anger following the avoidable tragedy near a popular tourist destination. Community members continue to demand stricter enforcement against drunk drivers to prevent similar fatal crashes on local roads.
