Pol. Col. Krisda Minsan, Chief of Koh Chang Police Station, affirms transparency in the case involving a navy sergeant who, while drunk driving, fatally struck Dr. Tai, the owner of a prominent Koh Chang hotel. He also explains the release of the suspect without any bail being required.
On 4 Jan 2026, Pol. Col. Krisda Minsan, Chief of Koh Chang Police Station in Trat Province, told reporters that Petty Officer Third Class Apidet Tiannuam, 23, from Wang Takian Subdistrict, Khao Saming District, Trat, a navy serviceman assigned to the Naval Maritime Security Center on Koh Chang, was driving a white Honda Civic with license plate Kor 2533 Rayong. He collided with Mr. Damrongchai Chewasukha, known as Dr. Tai, 61, residing at house number 6/7, Moo 4, Koh Chang Subdistrict, while Dr. Tai was jogging by the roadside. The accident occurred near the entrance of Siphon on the Sea, Moo 4, Koh Chang Subdistrict, on the morning of 1 Jan 2026.
The Koh Chang Police Chief told reporters that after the incident, Petty Officer Apidet remained at the scene and did not flee. He consented to a breathalyzer test which showed a blood alcohol level of 126 mg%. He then personally reported to the investigators. Police charged Apidet with negligent driving causing death and driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants. Initially, Apidet confessed that on New Year's Eve, he had socialized and drunk with friends, stayed overnight at a friend's house, and was driving back to work in the morning when he suddenly dozed off and only regained consciousness after the collision.
During the interrogation, a military legal officer was present. After completing the formal statement, investigators released Apidet without bail. The Koh Chang Police Chief explained that the suspect was charged without arrest or detention, his commanding officer was informed, and he has a known residence. The next steps involve summoning both the victim's family and the driver for discussions at Koh Chang Police Station. Investigators will then gather evidence and forward the case to the public prosecutor to file charges in court. The police chief assured the public that Koh Chang Police will handle the case transparently and in accordance with the law.
Dr. Damrongchai Chewasukha’s body was laid to rest at Khlong Son Temple, Koh Chang District, Trat Province, with a five-night Buddhist funeral from 2 to 6 Jan 2026, followed by cremation on 7 Jan 2026. Many attendees were present. The Naval Maritime Security Center on Koh Chang assigned over ten military personnel, including Petty Officer Apidet, to assist in organizing and facilitating the funeral each night.
Mr. Yongyut Chewasukha, 65, elder brother of Dr. Damrongchai, said the family does not hold anger toward the driver. The driver and his family have expressed responsibility for the incident. The family leaves the legal matter to the police to handle according to the law.
The deceased, Dr. Damrongchai, owned the Doo-Talay Hotel near Sai Khao Beach, Koh Chang District, and several other accommodation businesses. He formerly served as an advisor to Mr. Sanya Kerdmanee, former mayor of Koh Chang Subdistrict. Known for his kindness and community spirit, he was well-liked by the local residents and business owners on Koh Chang.