Holiday horror: Australian teen killed in Thai motorbike crash
In a heart-wrenching twist of fate, an Australian teenager’s Thai getaway has ended in tragedy. Known for his “beautiful soul,” Carlos Guirguis, of Melbourne, tragically lost his life in a motorbike crash on the holiday hotspot of Koh Samui.
The apprentice plumber was riding without a helmet when he attempted to overtake a local motorist in the early hours of March 27.
The 19 year old lost control and was thrown from his bike, suffering catastrophic head injuries. Despite desperate efforts from first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Thai police confirmed the crash took place near a 7-Eleven store in Koh Samui.
“A Honda brand motorcycle was found parked on its side next to the sign of a 7-Eleven convenience store. Nearby, the body of a white foreign man was found,” officers said in a statement.
Police added that Carlos had suffered severe wounds, with an excessive amount of blood at the crash site.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has since confirmed it is assisting Carlos’s grieving family.
“We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time.”
In the days following his death, family, friends, and colleagues have paid tribute to Carlos, describing him as a “beautiful soul” who “brought warmth everywhere he went.”
His co-workers at Neighbourhood Plumbing shared a heartfelt message online.
“His infectious smile lit us all up and his genuine care for others was felt by each of us. Taken too soon, he remains close to our hearts. We will remember his laughter, kindness and countless moments that made him so special. Rest Easy Carlos, we love you.”
A relative wrote on Facebook that his “unexpected” passing had left his loved ones in shock.
“Our family is still processing this profound loss, and we are finding comfort in the support of those around us during this incredibly difficult time.”
Thailand’s roads are among the deadliest in the world. In 2022 alone, nearly 15,000 people lost their lives in road accidents, more than half involving motorbikes. The Thai government has pledged to improve safety, but Carlos’s tragic death is yet another reminder of the risks faced by travellers.
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