Phuket –
Police in Patong have arrested a 29‑year‑old Turkish/Swedish dual national following the death of an Australian tourist who was fatally injured after being struck during a street altercation.
The Patong Police told the Phuket Express that the incident occurred on February 25th at approximately 5:05 p.m. when Mr. Alan, 58, an Australian national, was walking along a side street in Patong. According to investigators, Mr. Tugay, 29, from Turkey but with Swedish nationality, rode past on a motorcycle and sounded his horn at the victim. The gesture reportedly sparked a verbal dispute between the two men.
Witnesses told police that Mr. Tugay stopped his motorcycle, approached Mr. Alan, and struck him once in the face with his right hand. The blow caused Mr. Alan to collapse, hitting his head on the pavement. He was rushed to Patong Hospital by bystanders but later succumbed to his injuries at around 11:00 p.m. the same day.
Police investigators conducted an autopsy and later launched a manhunt for the suspect. At approximately 4:00 a.m. on February 26, officers from Patong Police Station tracked down Mr. Tugay and brought him in for questioning.
He was formally charged with “assault causing death” and remanded in custody. Authorities have submitted a request to the Phuket Provincial Court to deny bail.
