29-10-2023 (BANGKOK) In a devastating turn of events, one of the 12 boys who were rescued from a flooded cave in Chiang Rai, Thailand in 2018 has taken his own life while attending school in the United Kingdom. The incident came to light as BBC News reported on a coroner’s report regarding the heartbreaking event.
The young victim, identified as 18-year-old Duangphet Phromthep, was the captain of the Wild Boar football team and was discovered unconscious at Brooke House College in Leicestershire on February 12. Despite efforts to save him, he passed away two days later at Kettering General Hospital.
Following a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Duangphet’s death, a senior coroner concluded that it was indeed a suicide, as reported by the BBC. Professor Catherine Mason, who presided over the inquest, stated in the official records, “Mr. Phromthep was not known to mental health services, and it is not known why he took the actions that he did. It could not have been foreseen or prevented. The police investigation has found no evidence of third-party involvement or suspicious circumstances.”
Thai-language media had previously reported that the 18-year-old had died as a result of a head injury sustained from a fall. However, the coroner’s report has now confirmed the tragic truth behind his passing.
Duangphet, affectionately known by his nickname “Dom,” was one of the 12 young footballers who captured the world’s attention when they became trapped in Tham Luang Cave due to flooding in June 2018. The dramatic rescue operation, which lasted 17 days, involved a multinational effort to extricate the boys and their coach from the treacherous cave system in Chiang Rai.
The command center for the rescue operation was located in Chamber 1, a 200-meter-deep section of the cave that served as the nerve center for the operation led by Chiang Rai Governor Narongsak Osotthanakorn and the Thai Navy Seals. Duangphet was among the second group of boys successfully rescued from the cave on July 9.
Since their remarkable rescue, the Wild Boars have garnered worldwide attention and acclaim. Their incredible story has been the subject of numerous films and documentaries, capturing the hearts of people around the globe.
Following his rescue from the cave, Duangphet pursued his studies in sports in Chiang Mai. Later, he received a scholarship to study at Brooke House Academy, located approximately 150 kilometers north of London, and began his academic journey there in August of last year.
