Tourist tragedy in Phuket as bus hits Russian man

2026-02-10 - 08:46

PHUKET — A Russian tourist has died after being struck by a bus while crossing a road in Phuket on Sunday afternoon, police said. The incident occurred at about 3:45 on the beach road in front of Almerol Hotel in Karon sub-district, Muang district. Karon police said officers arriving at the scene found a Phuket-registered minibus parked by the roadside. The driver, identified as 38-year-old Santichai Chatree, remained at the scene. The injured tourist was found lying on the road and was given first aid by Karon municipal rescue workers. The victim was later identified as Aleksandr Bondarenko, 39, a Russian national. He was taken to Chalong Hospital in critical condition and was pronounced dead shortly afterwards. According to preliminary police inquiries, the bus was travelling along the road when the victim, who had been standing with friends at the roadside, suddenly attempted to cross. The driver was unable to stop in time, resulting in a collision. Police took the bus driver to Karon police station for questioning and alcohol testing. The test showed a zero blood-alcohol level, police said. Officers are reviewing dashcam and CCTV footage from the area as part of the investigation. Police have informed the Russian embassy and said legal procedures will follow. The victim’s body will be released to relatives for religious rites.