PATTAYA, THAILAND – Police prevented a 59-year-old Australian man from jumping off a third-floor hotel balcony in Soi Buakhao and moved to arrange his return home for psychological support.
Morning emergency in Soi Buakhao
Around 10:30 a.m. on Friday, 4 April, officers from the Pattaya City Police Station responded to an emergency call about a foreigner attempting to jump from a building in Soi Buakhao. The report led them to a local hotel where the situation was described as critical.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Wuttikorn Plodprong, deputy superintendent, coordinated the operation with patrol officers and the Pattaya Tourist Police. Other responsible agencies were called in to support the response at the scene.
Man seen clinging outside hotel balcony
At the hotel, officers found that it was a four-storey building. The man, a 59‑year‑old Australian citizen, was positioned on the outside of a third‑floor room balcony.
A hotel employee and police officers tried to persuade him to climb back into the room. According to responders, he initially appeared cooperative and seemed to understand their appeals.
Officers pull man back at last moment
When the Australian noticed additional officers, he reportedly moved again as if to jump from the balcony. At that moment, police intervened and pulled him back to safety.
The successful rescue triggered visible relief among nearby residents and tourists who had gathered in the area. No injuries were reported, according to the information released by the authorities.
Repeated climbing since early morning
Initial findings indicated the man had repeatedly climbed on the outside of the balcony since about 8 a.m.. He was said to have moved back and forth several times before police were finally called.
As a likely trigger, officials cited his anger at his partner, a transgender woman, who had left the room earlier that morning. He reportedly intended to force attention through his behaviour.
Authorities consider return for mental health care
After the incident, officers at the Pattaya City Police Station coordinated further steps with the Immigration Office in Chonburi and other relevant agencies. Their stated goal was to return the man to his home country so he could receive appropriate mental health support there.
Police said the man had shown similar behaviour on several previous occasions. His name was not made public in connection with the case.
Australian remains in custody for now
At the time of reporting, the Australian was still being held in custody. He was awaiting arrangements for his journey back to his home country.
Further details about possible legal measures or a specific timetable for his return were not provided. Investigations and coordination between the responsible authorities were ongoing.