Krabi, December 19, 2024 – A 25-year-old Austrian tourist, identified as David, has been arrested in connection with the death of a Russian man at Karon Beach, Phuket. The incident occurred on December 17, 2024, when the victim, Kirill, 58, was fatally struck by a speeding jet ski while swimming near Sue Puen Mon Bai restaurant.
Initially reported as a drowning, the case took a different turn after witness accounts and CCTV footage revealed that the victim had been hit by a jet ski, which fled the scene. The victim’s body was found by local fishermen after midnight on December 18. Investigators identified him as a Russian tourist traveling alone, based on a hotel-branded beach towel left on the shore.
CCTV footage from a nearby hotel showed two foreigners riding jet skis in the area. Local rental operators from “Chao Mai” company confirmed that three jet skis had been rented during the timeframe, with one of the vessels, jet ski #5, bearing scratches and paint damage. Investigators linked jet ski #5 to the Austrian suspect, who had rented it along with a companion.
Authorities tracked David to a resort on Phi Phi Island in Krabi province. A joint operation involving Phi Phi Island Police, Karon Police, Immigration, and Tourist Police led to his arrest at approximately 6:30 PM on December 19. The operation was led by Police Colonel Surasak Jaidee, with a warrant issued by the Phuket Provincial Court.
The suspect faces charges of reckless endangerment resulting in death, although he denies the allegations. He has been transferred to Karon Police Station for further questioning as investigations continue.
