Motorcyclist without helmet dies in road collision

PHUKET: Police are trying to identify a man who died in Wichit yesterday after the motorcycle he was riding struck the side of an oncoming car.

The man was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

Wichit Police and Ruam Jai Foundation rescue workers were called to the scene, in Soi Thep Anusorn, at about 12:30pm.

The motorbike rider was pronounced dead at the scene.

“We found the man, about 30 years old, lying face down on the road with a black t-shirt and light-blue jeans,” said Capt Narong Muangdoung of the Wichit Police.

“We searched him, but he was not carrying any identification.”

Witnesses said the victim appeared to lose control of his motorbike just before he swerved and struck the rear side panel of the oncoming car, said Capt Narong.

The driver of the car, who was unhurt, was taken to Wichit Police Station for questioning, but was released without charge, Capt Narong confirmed, declining to name the driver.

“We believe that the motorcyclist was a migrant worker,” he said, adding that police would continue their efforts to identify the man.

The body was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital.

— Kritsada Mueanhawong