Flying BMW Crashes into Phuket Shop, German Driver Faces Charges
PHUKET – A dramatic car accident in the early hours of the morning left a trail of destruction in Rawai, Phuket, as a high-speed BMW went airborne and crashed into a local shop. The driver, a 24-year-old German national, now faces legal charges for reckless driving.
At 4:00 AM, Police Lieutenant Colonel Prasit Rahob, Deputy Superintendent of Chalong Police Station, received a report of a car accident involving property damage in front of Siam Chai shop, located across from Suk San 1 alley on Wiset Road.
The Scene of the Crash
Upon arrival, officers discovered a heavily damaged BMW KI7600 sDive Limousine PHD with Phuket license plates. The driver, identified as Mr. Moritz, was accompanied by his passenger, Mr. Anton, also 24 years old and German. Both sustained minor injuries and were transported to Chalong Hospital for medical evaluation.
At the crash site, authorities found two Isuzu D-MAX pickup trucks belonging to Siam Chai company severely damaged. The accident also destroyed a large directional sign, roadside barriers, a streetlight pole, and various shop signs.
The Cause of the Accident
Preliminary investigations suggest that Mr. Moritz was speeding from Suk San 1 alley, a well-known shortcut from Kata-Karon Beach. Losing control of the blue BMW, the vehicle launched over the road median, cleared roadside barriers, struck a streetlight pole, and ultimately crashed into the front of Siam Chai shop, hitting the parked pickup trucks.
Fortunately, no oncoming traffic or pedestrians were in the area, preventing a potentially more catastrophic outcome.
Legal Consequences
Following the accident, Chalong police officers escorted the driver to the station for alcohol testing. Mr. Moritz will be charged with reckless driving and will be required to compensate Siam Chai for the damages.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine if additional charges may be warranted.
