Driver dies as emergency vehicle overturns in Prachuap Khiri Khan
An emergency response vehicle from Pak Phraek Subdistrict Administrative Organisation overturned after losing control on a curve, resulting in the tragic death of the driver. The incident occurred early yesterday morning following New Year’s Eve celebrations.
The accident took place around 5am on a road in Bang Saphan Noi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, near kilometre marker 9, in front of Bhan Phata Reung Ram Temple. Police Lieutenant Pavaris Siriwat, Deputy Inspector from Bang Saphan Noi Police Station, was promptly notified of the situation.
Responding alongside rescue teams from Bang Saphan Noi Hospital, they discovered a white ambulance belonging to Pak Phraek Emergency Services, registration number กค 2392, Prachuap Khiri Khan, overturned at the scene. The ambulance’s side mirror was shattered, and nearly all medical equipment inside the vehicle was damaged.
Nearby on the road lay the body of 31 year old Varatpong Chanmarid, who sustained facial injuries and was dressed in a white t-shirt and trousers.
Investigations revealed that Varatpong was a driver and volunteer for the Pak Phraek emergency unit. On the night of the accident, he had been responsible for transporting tourists attending the New Year’s Eve countdown at Laem Son Beach, Moo 5, in Pak Phraek.
He was returning to the emergency centre around 4.30am when the crash occurred. It is suspected that Varatpong may have fallen asleep at the wheel, leading to a loss of control as he navigated the curve.
The vehicle veered off course and crashed forcefully into an electric pole, causing Varatpong to be ejected from the ambulance and resulting in his immediate death, reported KhaoSod.
“We are conducting thorough investigations to uncover the true cause of this tragic accident,” stated the police, ensuring that a detailed examination of the circumstances will be carried out. Varatpong’s body is being sent for a comprehensive autopsy before being released to his family for traditional funeral rites.
