A tragic accident claimed the life of a motorcyclist when his bike collided with a bus attempting a U-turn and caught fire in Bang Lamung district, near Pattaya, on Sunday night.
The incident occurred at 10:36 PM near the 100-kilometre marker on Highway 36 in tambon Pong. Responding police officers discovered a First Transport Co bus, registered in Bangkok, with its luggage compartment door damaged near the right rear wheels.
A 1000cc Yamaha R1 motorcycle was found ablaze nearby. After extinguishing the fire, officers identified the seriously injured and unconscious rider as Kritphum Khanthong, 37. Despite efforts to resuscitate him, Kritphum succumbed to his injuries.
Chanin Srichome, 27, a fellow motorcyclist, stated that Kritphum was part of their group returning from a weekend trip. He explained that Kritphum was unable to avoid the bus as it started making a U-turn, blocking his path.
The bus driver, Sakrit Mohkae, 35, explained that due to the size of his vehicle, he had to initiate the U-turn from the left lane. Kritphum, traveling in the right lane, attempted to swerve into the left lane to avoid the collision but was unsuccessful.
The accident scene was attended by several officials and witnesses, emphasizing the community’s concern over road safety.
