Dutchman dies in three-vehicle smash

PHUKET: A 45-year-old Dutch man died in a three-vehicle crash in Phuket last night, which also left an unidentified Thai woman severely injured.

Witnesses told police that a collision between the Dutchman and a Thai woman riding a motorcycle near Chalong Circle caused the man’s bike to cross over the road into oncoming traffic and collide with a bus. Witnesses’ statements do not clarify how or why the initial impact between the two motorbikes occurred, confirmed Lt Cholada Chokdeesrijan of Chalong Police.

The accident occurred at about 10.30pm.

Rescue workers took both victims to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where the Dutchman was pronounced dead. The Thai woman remains in critical condition, Lt Cholada added.

The bus driver, Ekkachai Thaweethongpermkun, 56, confirmed witnesses’ statements, but could provide no further information to the police.

Police are looking to identify the injured woman and determine the cause of the collision.

The man’s name is being withheld by the Phuket Gazette, pending confirmation that his next of kin have been informed.

— Kritsada Mueanhawong