The collision occurred on Chao Fa East Rd on Mar 25. (See story here.)
Chalong Police Deputy Chief Pol Lt Col Jaruwat Polrat, who serves as Head of Patrol Division (Case Control), said the 38-year-old driver was released on bail after she was charged with negligent driving causing death and injury.
Pol Lt Col Jaruwat declined to name the driver. He also declined to confirm what was provided as surety in order for the woman to post bail.
The Russian woman told officers that she suddenly braked after suffering a panic attack, causing the vehicle to skid out of control before veering into the motorbikes, Pol Lt Col Jaruwat reported.
However, Pol Lt Col Jaruwat noted there is no clear evidence to support the driver’s claim that she was startled after seeing something flash past her vehicle.
Pol Lt Col Jaruwat confirmed the woman has been formally charged with negligent driving causing death, injury and property damage.
“She has been released on bail, and we have seized her passport and her pickup,” he said.
He added that investigators are still waiting to question the injured victim, who remains in Bangkok Hospital Phuket, as well as relatives of the deceased before proceeding further.
The case has not yet been forwarded to the public prosecutor, and no timeline has been set as the investigation continues.
Police also rejected suggestions the case might be quietly dropped amid past criticism over the handling of fatal road accidents.
“There is no need to worry this case will be silenced. We have secured important documents, and legal proceedings will definitely follow,” Col Jaruwat said.
The case has drawn renewed attention to concerns over transparency in high-profile road crash investigations in Phuket, following previous incidents in which families of victims complained of delays and lack of information from authorities.