Despite multiple reports online, and an outpouring of tributes marking Mr Semaan’s death on Monday (Jan 5), Cherng Talay Police have not issued any public report of Mr Semaan’s death.
However, Cherng Talay Police Chief Pol Col Ekkarat Plaiduang finally confirmed to The Phuket News yesterday (Jan 8) that Mr Semaan died in a fall from a building in Cherng Talay.
Col Ekkarat declined to identify exactly which building Mr Semaan fell from.
“The initial cause of death is presumed to be suicide by jumping from a building,” Pol Col Ekkarat said.
He said that Mr Semaan, originally from Lebanon, had underlying health conditions, including depression and stress.
Col Ekkarat clarified that Mr Semaan did not die at the scene. He was later pronounced dead at Thalang Hospital, where the medical examination was conducted.
“Because the death was confirmed at Thalang Hospital, the case file report falls under the jurisdiction of Thalang Police Station,” Pol Col Ekkarat said.
Yet, Thalang Police Chief Pol Col Nikorn Chuthong declined to comment, stating that the incident occurred in Cherng Talay and fell under the supervision of Cherng Talay Police.
Mr Semaan was well known as CEO of his own consultancy firms 444 Consultants and 444 Hospitality, and was Managing Director at the Pisona Group, run by well-known Patong businessman Preechavude ’Prab’ Keesin
Mr Preechavude posted on his social media on Monday, “RIP…JIMMY SEMAAN”
However, speaking to The Phuket News yesterday, Mr Preechavude said that he had no idea of what happened to Mr Semaan. “Some people said it was a heart attack, while others said it was suicide,” he said.
Mr Preechavude expressed deep condolences to the deceased’s family, friends and colleagues, who were saddened by the loss.
* If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or needs support, help is available. Contact the Samaritans of Thailand at 02-113-6789 (English & Thai) or the Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai).