British Father Drowns in Thailand After Being Swept Away by Waves

A tragic incident occurred on the morning of March 16, 2024, when a 37-year-old British father, Jason Mark Lambert, drowned at Freedom Beach in Phuket, Thailand. While swimming with his partner, Lambert was struck by a powerful wave and pulled into the sea by a rip current. Despite the immediate efforts of fellow beachgoers, he could not be revived.

Witnesses reported that the beach was busy when the incident unfolded. Lambert, a resident of Ipswich, had been enjoying a family holiday with his wife and young child. As he paddled in the water, a sudden wave caught him off guard, leading to his disappearance beneath the surface.

According to witness Chariya Thaweerat Howells, who was present during the incident, cries for help rang out as people noticed two other swimmers struggling in the water. “The sea looked rough, and we had only been there a few minutes when we heard cries for help,” she recounted. A local man quickly launched a kayak to assist the two swimmers, successfully bringing them back to shore.

It was only after this rescue that onlookers realized Lambert was also in distress. “By the time we pulled him onto the sand, his face was already pale and yellowish,” Howells noted, indicating that he had likely been underwater for an extended period.

Shortly after the incident, police were notified. Lieutenant Colonel Chanan Mekchai of the Patong Police Station stated, “The incident happened around 11:30 a.m., and we were informed an hour later. He arrived at the beach around 10:00 a.m. and was caught in strong waves while swimming.”

Rescue efforts were initiated immediately. Tourists at the beach attempted to administer CPR while waiting for emergency services to arrive. Despite these efforts, Lambert could not be revived.

The Foreign Office has been contacted for further comment regarding the incident. This tragedy has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a joyful family holiday, highlighting the dangers posed by unpredictable sea conditions.

Authorities continue to encourage all beachgoers to be vigilant and to heed local safety warnings to prevent similar tragedies.