Chinese man denied bail for transgender’s murder in PattayaLegacyThe 42 year old Chinese national, arrested for the murder of a 25 year old transgender woman in Pattaya, was denied bail after a three-hour-long interrogation today, April 28. Officers cited the severity of the crime, along with concerns of his fleeing, as the reason. Following the investigation, Tongyuen Fu, a was escorted to the Pattaya Provincial Court, where police implemented strict security measures, including having him wear a helmet and bulletproof vest due to concerns of potential mob justice from the victim’s family and angry locals. Police also opposed bail, citing fears that Fu, from Hubei province, might flee and the emotional impact of the high-profile case, reported KhaoSod. Later, the family of the deceased, led by the victim’s older sister, invited Buddhist monks to perform a ritual at the crime scene. The family spent about five minutes with the ceremony before heading to the Police General Hospital’s Forensic Medicine Institute to receive the body. Original story: Chinese man arrested for murder of transgender in Pattaya A Chinese man accused of murdering a transgender woman in Pattaya was arrested at Suvarnabhumi International Airport yesterday, April 26, as he attempted to exit Thailand. The victim, identified as 25 year old Woranan, a post-operative transgender woman from Nong Khai, was discovered by a housekeeper at a Pattaya apartment complex, who was conducting a welfare check. Local police were called to the scene at around 10am yesterday. Residents reported hearing a heated argument earlier between 1am and 2.30am. According to the housekeeper, around 2am she heard a loud argument between the two. She later heard the woman scream, “Let me go! Don’t hurt me!” followed by loud banging noises against the door, lasting for about an hour before falling silent. She informed the building manager in the morning, who instructed her to check on the room. Woranan’s body was found in the bathroom, severely dismembered. It was reported in other media sources that the murderer ripped out her heart, lungs, silicone breast implants, and mutilated her genitals. A large bag containing scissors, equipment and clothes was also found in the room. Investigators on the crime scene | Photo via KhaoSod CCTV footage captured Fu Tongyuen leaving the complex hastily around 6am, carrying a suitcase. Officials stated that he had rented the apartment for a week, and his passport showed multiple visits to Pattaya as a tourist. At around 1.45pm yesterday, immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport apprehended Fu as he tried to depart Thailand on China Eastern Airlines flight MU742 bound for Kunming, China. Officers also noted visible wounds on Fu’s face and body. Investigators immediately detained him for further legal proceedings. Motives revealed  Additional details have emerged from Pattaya police regarding a suspected murder, though the motive remains uncertain. The suspect, Tongyong Fu, was transported back to Pattaya City for questioning, with an interpreter assisting. On the evening of April 25, Fu met Woranun near South Pattaya Beach and exchanged contact information via WeChat. He claimed he was unaware she was transgender at the time. Later that night, around 9pm, they agreed to meet at his rented apartment in Soi Arunothai, Central Pattaya, agreeing on a fee of 8,000 baht for sexual services. Fu alleged that when Woranun refused to proceed, he demanded half of his money back. A heated argument ensued, escalating into physical violence. He claimed Woranun kicked him off the bed, prompting him to retaliate by jumping on her, straddling her, and strangling her until she stopped moving. After confirming her death, Fu dragged the body into the bathroom, where he mutilated the corpse with scissors, cutting from her neck down to her genitals and removing her heart. He claimed he wanted to “play with and tease” the body. Fu insisted he did not remove the missing lung. Following the killing, Fu cleaned the body and the room before going to sleep. The next morning, he booked a flight, took a motorcycle taxi and a bus to Suvarnabhumi Airport, where he was later apprehended while trying to flee to China. CCTV footage of Fu making his escape | Photo via KhaoSod When questioned about his mental state, Fu said he had never sought medical evaluation and could not confirm any illness. He told police he acted out of extreme anger after being attacked and expressed a wish to apologise to the victim’s family. The story Chinese man denied bail for transgender’s murder in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya sees drop in Chinese tourists, welcomed by EuropeansLegacyPattaya is seeing a noticeable decline in Chinese tourist arrivals, a shift met with mixed feelings by locals and long-term visitors. Business owners reliant on mass tourism have voiced concern, while many European tourists and residents are quietly welcoming the change. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reported that daily Chinese arrivals in Pattaya have fallen to around 5,000, compared to the pre-pandemic average of 15,000 to 20,000. Several factors have contributed to the slowdown, including dissatisfaction among Chinese travellers with rising costs in Thailand, competitive travel deals offered by other Southeast Asian destinations, and tensions between Thailand and China over trade negotiations. Beijing recently criticised Thailand’s refusal to lower tariffs, a move believed to have further discouraged travel. One European unnamed resident interviewed by Pattaya Mail commented on the drop in Chinese tourists. “The concerns mentioned are all true, but everyone knows after Songkran starts the low season, and numerous are happy that the massive levels of Chinese are going elsewhere.” For years, Chinese tour groups filled Pattaya’s hotels, beaches, and shopping malls, often arriving in large, organised groups. Their absence is now being felt by sectors that heavily depended on them. However, many European visitors are embracing the quieter streets and beaches. TAT welcomes first Chinese tour group in Don Mueang Airport since covid lockdowns (2023) | Photo via TAT European tourists and long-term visitors say they appreciate the more relaxed atmosphere, fewer crowds, and a return to a slower-paced, less commercialised Pattaya. Smaller, independent businesses, particularly those targeting individual travellers, are reportedly receiving steadier support from Western visitors seeking a different travel experience. Tourism operators in Pattaya are closely monitoring the situation. While China’s outbound travel market remains significant, there is a growing belief that a more diversified tourist base could help Pattaya achieve greater balance in the future. With the city now entering its traditional low season following Songkran, many will be watching to see whether this trend continues, and whether Pattaya attracts a different type of visitor moving forward, reported Pattaya Mail. The story Pattaya sees drop in Chinese tourists, welcomed by Europeans as seen on Thaiger News.

2 British men fined after clash with group of Thai men in PattayaLegacyTwo British men clashed with a group of Thai men at a convenience store in Pattaya and were ordered to pay 15,000 baht in compensation. The news Facebook page เจ๊มอย v+ (Jamoi v+) reported the incident yesterday, April 27, and attached a video of the altercation to the post. The initial cause of the confrontation was a road dispute between the two foreign men and a Thai app-based motorcycle taxi rider. Channel 7 reported that the two foreign men are British nationals. According to the page, the British men’s car almost collided with the rider’s motorcycle. However, the rider forgave them and continued his journey as he was transporting a passenger. Unfortunately, one of the foreigners then lowered the car window and threw rubbish at the rider. This angered the rider, who followed the car closely until they arrived outside the convenience store. The British man wearing a white T-shirt then exited the car and verbally abused the rider, while the second foreigner, dressed in a green shirt, followed and provoked the rider further. A physical altercation then ensued, during which the rider appeared to be at a disadvantage. The British man allegedly insulted the Thai men by touching his private part. | Photo via Facebook/ เจ๊ม้อย v+ The two foreigners were reportedly under the influence of alcohol. They were travelling with a Thai woman wearing a white minidress. The page stated that the woman attempted to intervene but was unsuccessful. The altercation attracted the attention of other Thai men in the area. The rider explained the situation to them, leading several others to join the fight. Photo via Facebook/ เจ๊ม้อย v+ In the video shared on the page, one Thai man can be heard saying, “Look at them, bros. They insulted us!” Shortly afterwards, a man in a white shirt punched the British man in the green shirt. Other men then rushed to join the attack until the two foreigners sought refuge inside the convenience store. Photo via Facebook/ เจ๊ม้อย v+ Police officers intervened, dragging the Thai attackers out of the store. The foreigner in the white shirt repeatedly asked for his phone and demanded the arrest of the motorcycle taxi rider but the police did not comply with his request. The British man asked the police officer to arrest the Thai rider. | Photo via Facebook/ เจ๊ม้อย v+ Both parties were taken to a police station. The two British men were charged under Section 295 of the Criminal Law: physical assault causing injury to another person, either physically or mentally. The penalty carries up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. In this case, the two foreigners were fined 15,000 baht. The story 2 British men fined after clash with group of Thai men in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

Curry on thief: Pattaya market vendor fleeced by motorbike banditLegacyA crafty crook made off with a Thai food vendor’s cash after pulling a sneaky stunt at a bustling Pattaya market. The police fear it’s just the latest in a growing trend of brazen street thefts. At 8.06am, yesterday, April 27, officers at Huai Yai Police Station were alerted to a snatch theft at Khao Mai Kaew Market, Pattaya. Patrol units rushed to the scene but the thief had already vanished into the morning traffic. The victim, 60 year old curry seller Warin Phongsungnoen, told police she had been serving customers when a tall, muscular man wearing a long-sleeve shirt and trousers rolled up on a motorbike. He pretended to order two bags of curry for 40 baht, but after she handed them over, he tossed them aside, claimed he didn’t want them, and lunged for her money basket, grabbing around 2,000 baht before speeding off, Pattaya News reported. Picture courtesy of Pattaya News Similar crimes have left market traders and street vendors across Thailand fearing for their livelihoods. Earlier this month, in a separate incident, 29 year old Jeeranan (surname withheld), a fried pork rice seller near BTS Mo Chit, Bangkok, lost over 100,000 baht after forgetting a bag of cash at her stall. When she raced back hours later, the bag had disappeared without a trace. She reported the theft to Police Lieutenant Suphat Hemachinda at Bang Sue Police Station, desperate for help in tracking down the thief. In another case that rattled local shopkeepers, Bangkok police recently arrested a notorious repeat offender known for targeting small vendors. The suspect, 57-year-old Suthin, was finally caught at the entrance of Soi Pracha Uthit 10 in the Huai Khwang district after a warrant was issued by the Criminal Court. His arrest put an end to a string of food shop thefts that had plagued the area for months. Back in Pattaya, Huai Yai Police are now reviewing CCTV footage from nearby stalls and streets in hopes of catching the motorbike bandit who left Ms Warin devastated. Locals are being urged to stay alert and keep a tight grip on their takings — before the next thief strikes. The story Curry on thief: Pattaya market vendor fleeced by motorbike bandit as seen on Thaiger News.

Russian man stabbed outside Pattaya condo in jealous rageLegacyA Russian man stabbed a fellow countryman in a jealous rage after seeing the victim speaking with his girlfriend outside a condominium in Pattaya. Officers from Mueang Pattaya Police Station were called to investigate the stabbing at the Sunset Boulevard 2 condominium on Soi Khao Phra Tamnak 4 in Pattaya at about 6pm on Saturday, April 26. Upon arrival, officers found the injured Russian man, 53 year old Romanov Mikhali, outside the building. Mikhali’s body was covered in blood, which was flowing from a stab wound to his neck. Officers reported that the wound affected a major artery, leaving him in critical condition. A witness reported to police that the attacker was also a foreign national. The stabbing occurred while the victim was sitting and talking with a foreign woman on a bench outside the condominium. The woman was reportedly his ex-girlfriend, and the attacker was her new boyfriend. Police successfully arrested the attacker, 43 year old Russian man Denis Ivanov, at around 11pm the same day near the scene. He was heavily intoxicated at the time. A witness reported that Ivanov consumed alcohol at a convenience store near the condo after committing the attack. Photo via Facebook/ สภ.เมืองพัทยา According to police, Ivanov was too drunk to undergo questioning after his arrest, so officers could not yet provide any detailed information about the motive to the media. It is suspected that Ivanov acted out of jealousy after seeing his girlfriend talking with her ex. Channel 7 reported that Ivanov had previously caught the two engaging in online conversations following their breakup. He had been monitoring his girlfriend until he caught them together. Photo via Facebook/ สภ.เมืองพัทยา No charges have yet been formally filed against Ivanov. Police stated they would likely wait to assess the victim’s condition. If Mikhali remains in critical condition, Ivanov could face imprisonment for between six months and 10 years, and a fine of between 10,000 and 200,000 baht, under Section 297 of the Criminal Law. Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวสารชลบุรี Ivanov also overstayed his visa for 578 days, or nearly 2 years. He entered Thailand in 2019 and should have followed the law by leaving the country on June 1, 2022. In a separate violent incident involving a Russian national reported in January, a Russian man allegedly threw his 13 year old son off a speedboat in the southern province of Phang Nga. The boy, a half-Thai, half-Russian national, was injured by a boat propeller and later succumbed to his injuries. Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวสารชลบุรี The story Russian man stabbed outside Pattaya condo in jealous rage as seen on Thaiger News.

Irishman critically injured in Pattaya motorcycle stabbing attackLegacyAn Irishman is in critical condition after being repeatedly stabbed in an early morning attack outside an apartment building in Pattaya City yesterday, April 26. The 34 year old victim sustained multiple slash wounds to his left arm, abdomen, and both legs. He was found lying injured next to his red-plated Honda motorcycle. KhaoSod English reported that the attack occurred around 1.36am near a condominium in Soi Thep Prasit 17. A security guard at the scene told police that the victim was returning from a convenience store on his motorcycle when another rider, reportedly a foreigner, pulled alongside him, kicked his bike, and knocked him to the ground. The assailant then stabbed the victim several times before fleeing the scene. Rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation rushed to provide first aid before transporting the injured man to the hospital. Police recovered a folding knife believed to have been used in the attack. Investigators are now working to identify and track down the suspect, using descriptions provided by witnesses. Police Lieutenant Colonel Chaowalit Suwanmanee, Deputy Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, confirmed that officers are gathering evidence and urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Photo via KhaoSod In other Pattaya news, a Chinese man has been apprehended at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on April 26 while attempting to leave Thailand, accused of murdering a 25 year old transgender woman, Woranan, in Pattaya. Woranan’s dismembered body was discovered in the bathroom of a Pattaya apartment complex after a welfare check by a housekeeper. Reports indicate the victim’s heart, lungs, silicone breast implants, and genitals were mutilated. A bag containing scissors, equipment, and clothes was found in the room. The pair met at the suspect’s apartment, agreeing on a fee for sexual services. The suspect alleges a dispute arose when the victim refused to proceed, leading to a violent altercation in which he strangled her. After her death, he admitted to mutilating her body with scissors in the bathroom, stating he wanted to “play with and tease” the body. The story Irishman critically injured in Pattaya motorcycle stabbing attack as seen on Thaiger News.

Chinese man arrested for murder of transgender in PattayaLegacyA Chinese man accused of murdering a transgender woman in Pattaya was arrested yesterday at Suvarnabhumi Airport yesterday, April 26, as he attempted to exit Thailand. The victim, identified as 25 year old Woranan, a post-operative transgender woman from Nong Khai, was discovered by a housekeeper at a Pattaya apartment complex, who was conducting a welfare check. Local police were called to the scene at around 10am yesterday, residents reported hearing a heated argument earlier between 1am and 2.30am. According to the housekeeper, around 2am she heard a loud argument between the two. She later heard the woman scream, “Let me go! Don’t hurt me!” followed by loud banging noises against the door, lasting for about an hour before falling silent. In the morning, she informed the building manager, who instructed her to check on the room. Woranan’s body was found in the bathroom, severely dismembered. It was reported in other media sources that the murderer ripped out her heart, lungs, silicone breast implants, and mutilated her genitals. A large bag containing scissors, equipment and clothes was also found in the room. Investigators on the crime scene | Photo via KhaoSod CCTV footage captured Fu leaving the complex hastily around 6am, carrying a suitcase. Officials stated that he had rented the apartment for a week, and his passport showed multiple visits to Pattaya as a tourist. At around 1.45pm yesterday, immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport apprehended Fu as he tried to depart Thailand on China Eastern Airlines flight MU742 bound for Kunming, China. Officers also noted visible wounds on Fu’s face and body. Investigators immediately detained him for further legal proceedings. Motives revealed  Additional details have emerged from Pattaya police regarding a suspected murder, though the motive remains uncertain. The suspect, Tongyong Fu, was transported back to Pattaya City for questioning, with an interpreter providing assistance. On the evening of April 25, Fu met Woranun near South Pattaya Beach and exchanged contact information via WeChat. He claimed he was unaware she was transgender at the time. Later that night, around 9pm, they agreed to meet at his rented apartment in Soi Arunothai, Central Pattaya, agreeing on a fee of 8,000 baht for sexual services. Fu alleged that when Woranun refused to proceed, he demanded half of his money back. A heated argument ensued, escalating into physical violence. He claimed Woranun kicked him off the bed, prompting him to retaliate by jumping on her, straddling her, and strangling her until she stopped moving. After confirming her death, Fu dragged the body into the bathroom, where he mutilated the corpse with scissors, cutting from her neck down to her genitals and removing her heart. He claimed he wanted to “play with and tease” the body. Fu insisted he did not remove the missing lung. Following the killing, Fu cleaned the body and the room before going to sleep. The next morning, he booked a flight, took a motorcycle taxi and a bus to Suvarnabhumi Airport, where he was later apprehended while trying to flee to China. CCTV footage of Fu making his escape | Photo via KhaoSod When questioned about his mental state, Fu said he had never sought medical evaluation and could not confirm any illness. He told police he acted out of extreme anger after being attacked and expressed a wish to apologise to the victim’s family. The story Chinese man arrested for murder of transgender in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

Youths throw pétanque balls at boxing leader’s Chon Buri homeLegacyIn a bizarre and frightening incident in Chon Buri, a group of youths targeted the home of a boxing camp leader, throwing pétanque balls at his house in the early hours yesterday, April 25. The attack, which narrowly missed his six year old daughter, left the family car and house windows damaged, leaving the family shaken and fearful. The incident occurred around 3am at the home of 51 year old Daeng, who runs the Phayak Mueang Chon boxing camp in Mueang district. Daeng was asleep with his wife and daughter when the attack began. He was woken by the sound of motorcycles revving outside his home, followed by the sound of breaking glass. A pétanque ball crashed through the window and into their bedroom, just inches away from hitting his daughter. As Daeng recounted the terrifying ordeal, he showed reporters the damage caused by the attack. His car’s windshield and the front door window were shattered, with glass fragments scattered throughout their bedroom. A pétanque ball, which Daeng kept as evidence, was found at the scene. Despite the violence of the act, the youths responsible fled before Daeng could react. The boxing camp leader quickly reported the incident to local police, but he remains confused about the motive behind the attack. He stated that he had no known disputes or enemies and had been focused on running his boxing camp and training young fighters. Daeng expressed his deep concern for his family’s safety, as he fears the youths may return to cause further harm, reported KhaoSod. Living in fear, Daeng has vowed to stay vigilant, hoping that the police investigation will uncover the reason behind the attack. Meanwhile, he continues to worry about the safety of his family, particularly his young daughter, whose life was narrowly spared in this frightening attack. The police are now investigating the case, and officers urge anyone with information to come forward. The story Youths throw pétanque balls at boxing leader’s Chon Buri home as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya’s new drainage system ready for rainy seasonLegacyPattaya City is gearing up for the rainy season with a major new upgrade to its drainage system, designed to combat flooding in central areas. On Thursday, April 24, Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet inspected and tested the newly completed Phase 1 of the Eastern Railway Parallel Road Drainage System, ensuring it’s ready for heavy rainfall. The drainage project, part of a long-term strategy to tackle Pattaya’s chronic flooding issues, has been under construction for some time but faced delays due to complications with pillars for the high-speed railway. Despite these setbacks, the project has now moved forward, with a robust system in place to manage floodwaters. The infrastructure features 1.80-metre diameter pressure pipes extending 2,500 metres and 2-metre drainage pipes spanning 3,000 metres, covering a total of 5.5 kilometres. The system is designed to store and pump floodwater from the Nong Prue Municipality, near Soi Khao Noi, and redirect it to Khlong Suea Phaew and Khlong Naklua, preventing overflow into Central Pattaya, including key areas like Sukhumvit Road, South Pattaya Intersection, and Soi Bongkot. Mayor Poramet emphasised the importance of the project in alleviating the flooding that has often plagued the city, especially during the monsoon months. He noted that while Phase 1 is now operational, Phase 2 is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Once both phases are finished, the city will assess the effectiveness of the system in managing floodwaters and protecting central Pattaya from future inundation, reported The Pattaya News. This newly completed drainage system is a much-needed solution for a city that sees heavy rainfall throughout the year. The project promises to ease the strain on Pattaya’s infrastructure, ensuring that both residents and tourists alike can enjoy a smoother, safer experience during the wet season. As the city prepares for the rains, officials are hopeful that these improvements will provide long-term relief from the flooding that has long disrupted Pattaya’s streets. The story Pattaya’s new drainage system ready for rainy season as seen on Thaiger News.

Woman attacked near Sattahip beach, deranged suspect arrestedLegacyA horrific attack near Sattahip’s Abhakornkiatiwong Hospital has left a 52 year old woman severely injured and a suspect in psychiatric evaluation. Police were called to the scene after a violent assault near the beach, leading to a swift response from rescue teams and medical staff. Upon arrival, officers found Namnong Samsi, bleeding heavily from a brutal head wound inflicted by a blunt wooden object. Witnesses described the attacker as a homeless man who appeared mentally unstable, assaulting the victim without any apparent reason. The victim was quickly treated at the scene and then rushed to Queen Sirikit Naval Hospital for further care. The suspect, after fleeing the scene, was spotted near the lighthouse roundabout by Sattahip Market, where he was apprehended by police. However, he resisted arrest, forcing officers to use physical force to subdue him. Officers believe the man’s erratic behaviour was due to his apparent mental health issues. Sattahip police acted swiftly, locating the assailant and taking him into custody. Following the arrest, the suspect was sent for a psychiatric evaluation to determine his mental state before any further legal action is taken, reported Pattaya Mail. This shocking incident has raised questions about public safety and the mental health crisis in the area, with authorities now focusing on ensuring the safety of the local community. As investigations continue, the community remains on edge, reflecting on the unsettling nature of the attack and the growing concern over public safety in the area. In similar news, police have arrested a mentally ill taxi driver who fatally stabbed a 61 year old maid during his stay at a hotel in Amnat Charoen on Tuesday, April 22. The victim suffered over 50 stab wounds. Hotel staff reported the brutal assault, and police responded swiftly, but the maid tragically died from her injuries before officers arrived. The suspect had checked into the hotel on April 19. Witnesses saw him fleeing the scene in a green and yellow taxi. The story Woman attacked near Sattahip beach, deranged suspect arrested as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya lifts out of order after Wan Lai water chaosLegacyThe aftermath of Pattaya’s wild Wan Lai water festival has left more than just soaked streets, some public elevators are out of order, causing frustration and major accessibility issues across the city. As the celebrations fade, the Cleanliness Control Division of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment has launched a deep-cleaning operation, targeting lifts in public areas hit hardest by water and powder. Despite attempts to keep things running smoothly during the festivities, several elevators have now been taken offline due to water damage. Residents have been quick to voice their concerns, particularly those relying on lifts for mobility. One local woman shared how her friend, a wheelchair user, was left stranded at a crossing when the lift failed. “Her partner had to carry her across the road. It was stressful and dangerous.” According to city officials, the elevator systems were compromised after water seeped into electrical components during the Wan Lai madness, a traditional Thai New Year celebration known for city-wide water fights. “Water entered the lift systems, causing malfunctions. Repairs are currently underway,” said a spokesperson from the department. The city’s deep-cleaning efforts are ongoing, with maintenance teams working their way through various lift sites still affected by grime, moisture, and potential electrical issues. Local officials have pledged to restore all lifts to working order as soon as possible, but some remain unusable for now. Wan Lai, while a beloved and highly anticipated festival, has once again exposed infrastructure vulnerabilities, particularly when it comes to public accessibility. Wheelchair users and the elderly are among those most impacted by the breakdowns, as pedestrian bridges become nearly impossible to cross without functional lifts. Officials have reminded the public to report any out-of-service elevators to local authorities for urgent maintenance. They also urged residents to show understanding during the post-festival clean-up, which they expect to continue over the coming days, reported Pattaya Mail. With tourism back in full swing and Pattaya welcoming more visitors than ever, officials say they’ll be reviewing preventative measures to protect public infrastructure during future celebrations. The story Pattaya lifts out of order after Wan Lai water chaos as seen on Thaiger News.

Train slams pickup as driver ignores barrier in SattahipLegacyA 69 year old man is lucky to be alive after a shocking collision with a freight train in Sattahip that left his pickup truck mangled and his body seriously injured. At 9.50am yesterday, April 24, Sattahip Police were alerted to a dramatic accident at a railway crossing near Ban Noen Samakkhi in Chon Buri province. The crash involved a freight train and a pickup truck and prompted an immediate emergency response from local officers and rescuers from the Sawang Rojanathammasathan Foundation. Upon arrival, emergency personnel found freight train No. 4524 halted near the site. The train had been en route from Map Ta Phut Station to Laem Chabang Port when it ploughed into a blue Isuzu D-Max four-door pickup. The vehicle was thrown nearly 50 metres into roadside grassland, sustaining major damage to its left side and rear. CCTV footage from the area confirmed what responders feared, reckless driving was to blame. The video shows the pickup driver, identified as 69 year old Prasert, attempting to speed past a lowered railway barrier in a bid to beat the train. Moments later, the train smashed into the front of the truck with devastating force. Prasert suffered severe injuries in the crash and was immediately transported to Bangkok-Pattaya Hospital for emergency treatment. As of the latest update, he remains hospitalised under close observation. Police have launched an investigation into the incident and plan to question both the train operator and Prasert once the latter recovers. Officers are also reviewing additional footage and eyewitness statements to determine whether legal charges will be filed, reported The Pattaya News. This incident has reignited concerns about motorists ignoring railway safety protocols. “Railway crossings are equipped with barriers for a reason,” said a local official at the scene. “One moment of impatience can lead to lifelong consequences—or worse.” As police continue their probe, they urge all drivers to obey crossing signals and barriers. The consequences of ignoring them, as seen in this chilling accident, can be catastrophic. The story Train slams pickup as driver ignores barrier in Sattahip as seen on Thaiger News.