Cycling accident in Chiang Rai claims coffee champion’s life

A tragic accident in Chiang Rai has left the local community mourning the loss of a 33 year old renowned coffee drip champion, Yodsaphon Chaibao, who died while cycling with friends. A black Toyota Fortuner collided with his bicycle, causing fatal injuries.

Police from Ban Du Station, Chiang Rai, arrested the driver and seized the vehicle for further investigation after the accident, which occurred at 6.30pm yesterday, October 10. Yodsaphon owned a coffee shop and was celebrated for his contributions to the local coffee industry. Just recently, he had helped flood victims in Mae Sai.

Investigations revealed that the black Toyota Fortuner had significant damage on the left front side. The authorities are questioning the driver and inspecting the vehicle. It is reported that the car is linked to a high-ranking school official in Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai.

The accident happened when police received a report of a severe collision involving a bicycle, which left a man critically injured. Yodsaphon was cycling with eight friends on Route 1063, a four-lane bypass road, when the incident occurred. The black Toyota Fortuner hit Yodsaphon’s bicycle from behind, causing him to be thrown off the road.

The driver did not stop but instead drove into a nearby petrol station before continuing on their way. Yodsaphon’s friends flagged down an ambulance, which transported him to Mae Fah Luang University Hospital, where he later died.

Yodsaphon, who lived in Tha Sut, Mueang district, Chiang Rai, was the owner of Kaang Tong Café in Tha Sut. He had won the Mighty Mix Bartender and Barista Thailand 2023 competition in the NAN DRIP BATTLE x HARIO category.

An initial investigation found that Yodsaphon and his group left Mae Fah Luang University and were cycling on the leftmost lane of Route 1063 when the accident occurred. The Toyota Fortuner that hit him did not stop to assist but entered a petrol station briefly before driving away. His friends managed to get him to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries, reported KhaoSod.

Yodsaphon was well-loved and played a significant role in developing Chiang Rai’s coffee scene. Known for his kind nature, he was cherished by friends and colleagues. During the severe floods in September, Yodsaphon and his friends delivered drinking water to affected areas in Mueang Chiang Rai and Mae Sai.