UPDATE: Beloved Thai Doctor Dies after Two Weeks in Hospital after Being Hit by British Motorbike Rider High on Cocaine on Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan/Surat Thani –

The Thai medical community is in mourning following the death of Associate Professor Dr. Teerasak Kaew-omttawong, a respected specialist in respiratory diseases and critical care medicine, who passed away peacefully on June 7th after battling severe injuries sustained in a tragic accident in which a British expat and local tour boat owner who was high on cocaine struck the doctor while he was out for a walk. The British man fled and was later captured hiding in one of his boats.

Our previous stories:

A serious road accident on Koh Phangan has left Associate Professor Dr. Teerasak, widely known as “Doctor Ton”, in critical condition after being struck by a British motorcyclist who fled and later tested positive for cocaine.

Investigators submitted a custody request to Koh Samui Provincial Court and strongly opposed bail, citing the severity of the charges and the risk of flight.

Now for the update:

Dr. Teerasak, affectionately known as “Ajarn Mor Ton”, was critically injured when a British man, Mr. Wilcock, 51, reportedly under the influence of cocaine, crashed a motorcycle into him on Koh Phangan, Surat Thani on May 23rd. Despite intensive treatment over two weeks, his condition remained grave, and he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

The Koh Phangan Hospital announced his passing with a heartfelt tribute on its official Facebook page, expressing profound sorrow and gratitude for his contributions:

“We extend our deepest condolences on the loss of Ajarn Mor Ton, Associate Professor Dr. Teerasak Kaew-omttawong. May his soul rest in peace. With love and remembrance, from the hospital administration, staff, and the people of Koh Phangan.”

The hospital’s message also included poignant reflections on the enduring bonds of memory and affection:

• “Some farewells have no words, only endless remembrance.”
• “Though someone departs, love and memories remain.”
• “Separation may take people apart, but it cannot erase the ties in our hearts.”

There was no immediate comment from authorities on if this would bring further and more serious legal charges against the British man, who remains in custody as of press time, but it was likely.

Mr. Wilcock already faced seven charges, said police:

1. Reckless driving causing serious injury
2. Fleeing the scene without providing assistance
3. Driving without a valid license
4. Operating a vehicle without annual tax registration
5. Operating a vehicle without compulsory insurance
6. Use of a Category 2 narcotic (cocaine)
7. Driving under the influence of alcohol causing serious injury