German tourist dies of head injuries

KAMALA: A 40-year-old German tourist was found dead on a stairway with severe head injuries early this morning. Police believe his death was accidental but have not ruled out foul play. Police named the man as Peter Otto, of Kamala Buri Guesthouse. Other guests heard what sounded like Mr Otto’s door opening about 4 am, and then heard someone falling down stairs. Officers called to the scene found Mr Otto lying headfirst in a pool of blood on the stairs. His shoes were at the bottom of the staircase. An autopsy at Patong Hospital confirmed the cause of death to be the result of a severe head injury. Pol Capt. Khomdej Poethong, of Kathu Police Station, said, “I am coordinating our investigation with forensic police to make sure that he was not murdered, but it seems unlikely.” Police will contact the German Embassy.