Chiang Mai Tragedy: Man Drowns in Suspected Suicide Near Mengrai Bridge
CHIANG MAI – April 6, 2025 — Authorities in Mueang Chiang Mai district have recovered the body of a 54-year-old man who drowned in the Ping River near Mengrai Bridge in what police suspect may have been a suicide.
Rescue teams and divers were dispatched early Saturday morning after being alerted by the man’s daughter, who reported a disturbing message he had sent her via Facebook:
“When I was a child, I once nearly drowned here; today, I will die here.”
After receiving no response to her calls, she rushed to the area and found only her father’s clothing, bag, phone, and tablet left on the riverbank near his parked motorcycle. Emergency personnel soon located his body in the river and retrieved it for examination.
Police believe stress may have played a role in the man’s decision. The body has been transferred to Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital for a forensic autopsy. His family is expected to proceed with traditional funeral rites following the examination.
A Broader Crisis: Mental Health and Air Pollution in Chiang Mai
The tragedy comes at a time when Chiang Mai is grappling with severe air pollution, largely driven by more than 150 active wildfires across 15 districts. As of April 1, areas such as Hot, Chiang Dao, and Phrao were the most severely affected.
The toxic haze has choked the city for weeks, earning Chiang Mai the third spot on global pollution rankings. Public health officials have warned of respiratory and psychological impacts, particularly among vulnerable populations.
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Support is available:
- Samaritans of Thailand (24-hour hotline)
- English: ☎️ 02 713 6791
- Thai: ☎️ 02 713 6793
- Thai Mental Health Hotline: ☎️ 1323 (Thai)
Even a brief message or call to a loved one can make a difference. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone, and help is here.
🕯️ May the deceased rest in peace, and may his family find strength during this difficult time.
