Tragic death of Burmese boy in Bangkok after choking on food

A five year old boy from Myanmar, weighing over 50 kilogrammes, tragically died after choking on food at his home in the Rat Burana district of Bangkok. The incident occurred around 12.10am, today, April 8, with police and medical personnel from Siriraj Hospital responding to the scene.
The boy was discovered on the ground floor of a three-storey commercial building, dressed in a blue t-shirt and black shorts. He was found lying near the entrance, showing signs of asphyxiation. Nearby, a 4.5 cubic foot refrigerator contained sliced dragon fruit, milk, and a bottle of water.
The child’s father, 35 year old Myanmar national, Somilay, stated that his son had complained of breathing difficulties. He had eaten steamed Thai sausage, boiled eggs, and milk earlier but was unsure if his son had consumed the dragon fruit.
A neighbour, 56 year old Patcharee, described witnessing the boy’s parents tending to him. She assumed the boy was having a relapse of a recent hospitalisation. She noted that although the boy was initially conscious, he appeared restless.
Patcharee recalled seeing the boy around 8pm, moving about as if distressed. She advised against lying down, encouraging the boy to sit upright.
Despite appearing calm, his condition fluctuated. Patcharee speculated on the boy’s recent medical history, mentioning conditions like asthma and fluid in the lungs. She noted that before his hospital discharge, he seemed healthy and active.
When the rescue team arrived, the boy had lost consciousness. A resuscitation attempt was made using CPR, during which he vomited large pieces of dragon fruit and milk.
This led rescuers to suspect that the dragon fruit might have obstructed his airway. Despite extensive efforts, the boy could not be revived, and his death was confirmed.
The boy’s grieving parents and relatives were joined by volunteers who were visibly affected by the tragic scene. This incident serves as a poignant reminder for parents to closely supervise their children during meals to prevent such unfortunate occurrences, reported KhaoSod.
The police and medical team have sent the boy’s body for a thorough examination at Siriraj Hospital’s forensic department. Once completed, the family will proceed with religious rites.
