Suspected suicide: Famed Thai radio personality DJ Ko found dead in Khlong Toei hotel

The Thai broadcasting scene was met with shock and grief as 36 year old famed radio personality, Trin Ruangkitratanakul, better known as DJ Ko, plunged to his death in a Bangkok hotel yesterday afternoon (November 17).

The incident, which took place in the bustling district of Khlong Toei, is currently being investigated as a suspected suicide.

Local law enforcement received a report about the incident at approximately 1.30pm. DJ Ko’s lifeless body was discovered near the kitchen entrance of a two-storey house, located next to the hotel on Soi Sukhumvit 20 where he had been staying.

Witnesses from the hotel staff reported hearing a loud thud at the fence of the neighbouring house. On investigation, they found DJ Ko’s body. The initial investigation revealed that the popular DJ had checked into the hotel alone prior to the unfortunate event.

Officers examined the hotel’s CCTV footage which showed DJ Ko walking alone to the hotel’s rooftop. The footage further revealed him accessing the fire exit door five times before finally making his way to the rooftop, from where he fell. No other individual was seen following him.

At the scene, police found his mobile phone, a blood-stained hotel bathrobe, a keycard, cigarettes, and a lighter. Given the circumstances and evidence, they are inclined to believe that DJ Ko jumped, resulting in his untimely death. Further investigations are currently underway.

Aftermath and grief

Speaking about the tragic event, DJ Ko’s parents and elder sister expressed their disbelief and confusion, stating that they could not comprehend what could have led him to take such a drastic step. His mother, in particular, mentioned that her son did not have any known chronic diseases or work-related issues that might have pushed him towards this tragic end, reported Bangkok Post.

DJ Ko was a highly admired figure in the Thai radio industry, hosting the award-winning entertainment and music programme on 106.5 Green Wave radio. His sudden demise has indeed left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and listeners. His contribution to the radio broadcasting scene was recognised when he won the coveted Nataraja Award for best radio entertainment and music programme host.

If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help.