Motorbike tragedy: Nigerian tourist killed in Phuket red-light crash
A Nigerian tourist tragically lost his life in Phuket yesterday, January 13 after running a red light at the Samkong Intersection in Ratsada subdistrict, Kathu district, and colliding with a speeding passenger van. The fatal accident, which occurred at 3.10pm has reignited public outrage over reckless driving and traffic violations in the province.
Dashcam footage shared by Facebook user Chawalit Mueaibut captured the harrowing moment the tourist’s motorbike, heading northbound on the bypass road, ignored a red light and was struck by the van travelling from Kathu.
The force of the collision threw the man off his bike, leaving him unconscious at the scene. Despite being rushed to Bangkok Hospital Siriroj, the man succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Eyewitnesses reported that a foreign motorcyclist passing by stopped immediately to assist the victim, earning widespread praise on social media for his quick response. The van driver also stopped to check on the injured tourist. However, the incident sparked criticism online, with netizens condemning red-light violations and some bystanders’ apparent hesitation to help.
“The courage of the foreign motorcyclist is admirable. Why do others just stand and watch?”
CCTV footage later confirmed that the van had the green light, and the driver had no time to avoid the collision. Police stated the crash was unavoidable under the circumstances, reported The Phuket News.
The Nigerian tourist’s motorbike was severely damaged, and the footage has since gone viral, reigniting discussions about road safety in Phuket. The tragic accident underscores the dangers of ignoring traffic signals, with many calling for stricter enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In related news, a crash involving three vehicles at a red light intersection in Chachoengsao province resulted in two injuries, with emergency services swiftly transporting the injured to Bang Pakong Hospital.
The incident occurred early morning on January 9 at the Tha Sa-an intersection, Mueang Bang Pakong district.
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