Karon Police were alerted at 6:45pm to the incident, which occurred near Nong Harn Public Park. The victim, identified as Russian national Andrei Chekhirov, 56, was pronounced dead after being taken to Chalong Hospital.
Police Lt Phirawat Yodtor, Deputy Inspector of Karon Police Station, said officers were informed of the drowning by a nurse at Chalong Hospital, where the man’s body had been transferred for emergency treatment.
Hospital staff confirmed that lifeguards had performed CPR at the beach before the man was transported by rescue workers, but attempts to revive him were unsuccessful. No signs of injury or foul play were found on his body.
Mr Chekhirov’s wife, Ms Zarina Chekhirhova, 43, told police that the family had arrived in Phuket earlier the same day for a 10-day holiday and were staying at a nearby hotel.
She said her husband had been swimming alone for about 30 minutes before signalling for help. Lifeguards rushed to assist and found him unconscious in the water.
Police have sent the body to Vachira Phuket Hospital for official confirmation of the cause of death.
Karon Police Chief Pol Col Khundet Na Nongkhai confirmed that officers are continuing their investigation and have notified the Russian consulate.
Lifeguards are continuing their warnings to beware dangerous rip currents and strong waves, and to not enter the water where red ‘no swimming’ flags are posted.