Body confirmed as missing American
PHUKET: The body found at Kalim Beach on June 14 has been confirmed as that of missing American student Joshua Shane.
Wednesday 20 June 2012, 03:04PM
Pol Lt Chavalit Niemwadee, an investigator at Kathu Police Station confirmed on Wednesday (June 20) that the body had been identified.
Mr Shane, a student majoring in Sustainability at Arizona State University (ASU), went missing on the night of June 11 after he and three fellow-students got into difficulty after going swimming in heavy surf off Patong Beach.
Though the other three were rescued or made it back to shore by themselves, Mr Shane could not be found.
The Kansas TV station KCTV5 quoted Mr Shane’s family as saying, “Joshua is a beautiful soul and was truly at his best while traveling & exploring. He was passionate about international social justice and global sustainability. He was here to make the world a better place.
“We would like to thank those involved including the people of Thailand and Arizona State University for their dedication and compassion during this difficult time. We will continue to be inspired by Joshua’s life and appreciate the outpouring of support and prayer.”
The Kansas City Star quoted Julie Newberg, an ASU spokeswoman, as saying that the university would provide counseling services to Mr Shane’s classmates and others who may be affected by Shane’s death.
“ASU is deeply saddened and we offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Joshua Shane,” she added.
