Jason Mark Lambert, 37, from Ipswich, was paddling at Freedom Beach in Phuket, Thailand, on Saturday morning when he was struck by a strong wave and swept away
A 37-year-old British father has tragically drowned while on a beach trip with his partner. Jason Mark Lambert, from Ipswich, was paddling in the sea at Freedom Beach in Phuket, Thailand, on Saturday morning when he was hit by a powerful wave and swept away by a rip current.
Other holidaymakers quickly tried to help him, but sadly the dad-of-one could not be resuscitated. Two other swimmers were also pulled out to sea at the same time, but both were rescued alive, reports the Mirror.
Eyewitness Chariya Thaweerat Howells, 31, described how people initially rushed in to assist two swimmers who were shouting for help. She said: “The sea looked rough and we had only been there a few minutes when we heard cries for help.
“Everyone ran to assist. A Thai man launched a kayak and managed to reach the two struggling tourists and get them safely to shore. Only then did people realise a third man was being washed in. By the time they dragged him onto the sand his face was already pale and yellowish. He had clearly been underwater for some time.”
Police Lieutenant Colonel Chanan Mekchai of Patong Police Station stated: “The incident happened at around 11.30am, and we were notified an hour later.
“He went to the beach with his wife at around 10am. While swimming, he was caught in strong waves and disappeared beneath the surface.
“Tourists on the beach rushed to help and managed to pull him from the water. They attempted CPR for first aid while waiting for the emergency service, but he could not be revived.”
The Foreign Office has been asked for comment.
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