PATTAYA, THAILAND – A Russian tourist was killed and another injured when their motorbike slammed into a tree on a notorious Jomtien road on New Year’s morning.
Fatal crash on Jomtien Second Road
The collision occurred at about 8:50 a.m. on 1 January 2026 on Jomtien Second Road, when a green Yamaha Aerox lost control in a sharp bend. The rider was unable to keep the bike steady, and it skidded across the carriageway before striking a tree on the central median at high speed. The impact split the trunk, scattering motorcycle debris across the road.
One dead, one injured
The 28-year-old Russian, identified as Zubairu, was pronounced dead at the scene. His 27-year-old compatriot Nikolai survived with minor injuries and was taken immediately to nearby Jomtien Hospital by rescue workers. A security guard from a neighboring condominium, who had rushed over after hearing the loud bang, said he stayed with the victims until emergency services arrived and reported:
“One was unconscious, the other was sitting next to him.”
said the witness, security guard.
‘Deadly Curve’ feared by locals
Police confirmed that the bend where the crash happened was a well-known accident blackspot, carrying the grim nickname “Deadly Curve” among residents. Over the past twelve months, there had been more than ten serious accidents at the site, resulting in deaths or severe injuries, prompting concern among local authorities. According to the initial police investigation,
“The motorcycle was traveling at excessive speed and could no longer handle the curve.”
said the police, investigators.
Tourists repeatedly caught out
Officers noted that similar incidents involved mainly young male tourists on rented scooters in Pattaya. They pointed to recklessness, unfamiliar road conditions and often alcohol as a dangerous combination, and said the Jomtien “Deadly Curve” appeared harmless but in fact required a significant reduction in speed. The Thai police had been warning for years about the risks facing visitors on local roads.
Calls for structural safety measures
Residents and business owners had long demanded stronger safety measures on the bend. Proposals included speed-reducing speed bumps, more prominent warning signs or even a complete redesign of the curve. Until any changes were made, police appealed to all road users:
“Slow down, especially in unfamiliar terrain!”
said the police, traffic officers.
New year begins in mourning
For Zubairu’s family and friends, the new year began with what was described as an unimaginable tragedy. Police said investigations into the precise course of the accident were continuing, as locals again questioned how many more lives the “Deadly Curve” would claim.