PHANG NGA, Thailand – Two German tourists died after being struck by a pickup truck while crossing Phetkasem Road at a pedestrian crossing in Khao Lak, Takuapa district, on the night of October 2, with the driver reportedly fleeing the scene. The crash occurred at about 9:45 p.m. near the pedestrian crossing in front of Orchid Khao Lak on Phetkasem Road, heading towards Thai Mueang, in Khuekkhak subdistrict.
Police who arrived at the scene found a 63-year-old German woman, identified as Gabriela, seriously injured. Another German tourist, a 64-year-old man identified as Wilbert, had already been taken to Khao Lak Medical Centre. Witnesses told police that a white Mazda BT-50 pickup with a Bangkok licence plate struck both tourists while they were crossing the road. The driver allegedly accelerated away towards Thai Mueang without stopping to assist the victims.
Police later went to Khao Lak Medical Centre, where medical staff were attempting to save Wilbert. He died at about 10:32 p.m. Gabriela was subsequently pronounced dead at about 11:04 p.m.
The two victims were German tourists staying at a hotel in Takuapa district from September 30 to October 9. Investigators photographed and documented the crash scene, prepared a scene map and worked with the on-duty doctor to examine the bodies. Police are also collecting witness statements and other evidence while checking CCTV footage to identify the pickup and driver.
Police are pursuing the case under the charge of negligent driving causing death and are working to identify and locate the driver and vehicle for legal proceedings. Tourist Police Commissioner Pol. Lt. Gen. Pongsiam Meekanthong expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and ordered Tourist Police officers to closely coordinate with investigators, assist the families and follow the case. Tourist Police are also coordinating with relevant agencies to provide assistance to the victims’ relatives. The Tourist Police hotline 1155 is available 24 hours a day.
