Two Thai Men Charged with Assault Leading to Death of British Man in Bangkok
Bangkok — Two Thai nightclub security guards have been charged following the death of a 28-year-old British man, identified as Nicholas, in Bangkok. The incident, which occurred around 2:05 AM on March 24, is under investigation by Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, Commander of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, and other senior officials.
The Incident
Witnesses and security footage reveal that Nicholas, the British man, was running along Phibunsongkhram Bridge toward the 91 Karaoke establishment. He attempted to enter the venue but was stopped by a 29-year-old bouncer, Boonchu, who engaged in a brief confrontation with him. Nicholas became angry and began shouting, retreating toward Bang Pho intersection.
Shortly after, Phurinat, a second bouncer, emerged and, along with Boonchu, chased Nicholas on a Yamaha Nuovo motorcycle. When they caught up with him, Phurinat asked, “Is there anything I can help you with?”
Nicholas, reportedly agitated, jumped onto the motorcycle, leading to an altercation. Boonchu tried to communicate using a translation app, but Nicholas allegedly attempted to grab the device, escalating the situation. He then attempted to steal the motorcycle, which caused a struggle and the motorcycle to fall over. Boonchu and Phurinat restrained Nicholas, with Phurinat straddling his waist and Boonchu pinning his head to the ground.
Nicholas became unresponsive during the restraint and was later pronounced dead.
Investigation and Charges
Both suspects maintain they had no malicious intent and claimed the altercation resulted from a language barrier. However, security footage confirmed that a chokehold was used during the restraint.
The two men have been charged with jointly assaulting another person resulting in death. Police are awaiting the official autopsy results from Phramongkutklao Hospital to determine whether asphyxiation from the restraint was the cause of death. These results are expected within seven days.
Police Colonel Apichai Huanjit, Superintendent of Bang Pho Police Station, confirmed that immigration authorities have been notified and are coordinating with the British Embassy to contact the deceased’s relatives.
