Australian tourist dies in Phuket swimming pool

PHUKET: An Australian tourist died while swimming in a pool at a well-known Phuket hotel late yesterday afternoon.

Kathu Police duty officer Jongserm Preecha identified the deceased as 58-year-old James Bourke.

Staff and customers at the Banthai Beach Resort and Spa in Patong told police they saw Mr Bourke go for a swim after eating a meal at about 5pm.

During the swim he suddenly sank to the bottom of the pool, they said.

People in the area at the time initially thought he was just diving and paid little attention.

After realizing he was in trouble, they rushed to his aid but had trouble getting him out of the pool because of his weight, estimated to be in excess of 100 kilograms.

Mr Bourke was rushed to Patong Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Pol Maj Jongserm said he is awaiting a medical examination report to learn the exact cause of Mr Bourke’s demise.

The Australian Embassy has been notified of the death and is contacting Mr Bourke’s relatives, Maj Jongserm said.