Dramatic rescue attempt at sunset
One of Phuket’s most popular beaches became the scene of tragedy last night when a foreign man drowned at Karon Beach despite desperate rescue efforts. The incident unfolded near the sports stadium at the southern end of the beach just as the sun was setting.
Witnesses reported seeing the man, estimated to be around 60 years old, struggling against the powerful waves. A passer-by quickly raised the alarm with the Narenthorn emergency centre, and beachgoers rushed into the water to help.
Bystanders performed CPR on the unconscious man until paramedics arrived. He was transported to Chalong Hospital with resuscitation attempts ongoing, but doctors pronounced him dead around 7.30pm.
Police seek to identify the victim
Police Lieutenant Phirawat Yodtor of Karon Police Station confirmed that the man was wearing only blue swim trunks and had fair skin. No injuries or signs of foul play were found during the initial examination, suggesting drowning as the likely cause.
His body was later transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a full autopsy to establish the exact cause of death. Officers admitted that identifying the man presents a serious challenge as no personal belongings or identity documents were recovered at the scene.
Second drowning in a week
The tragedy marks the second drowning at Karon Beach within just one week. Four days earlier, the body of a Bahraini tourist was discovered after a three-day search, following his decision to swim with his brothers despite red warning flags.
The succession of fatal incidents has fuelled concerns about safety on Phuket’s beaches. In particular, evenings pose greater risks when lifeguards have ended their shifts, leaving swimmers without supervision in unpredictable waters.
Appeal to the public
Karon police have urged the public to come forward with any information that might help establish the victim’s identity. Authorities are also warning both locals and tourists about the dangers of swimming after dark or in unsupervised areas.
‘We are working to confirm the man’s identity and contact his next of kin,’ a police spokesman said. Until then, the victim remains an unnamed statistic — another life claimed by the treacherous currents off Phuket.
For rescue teams on the island, it is yet another sombre reminder of the risks that lurk beneath the waves. Officials now face growing calls for stricter safety measures, including extended lifeguard coverage and clearer warnings, to prevent further tragedies.