An American tourist was left unconscious after a fight with three British tourists in Pattaya in the early hours of January 25, 2026. Police responded quickly, and all four men later faced charges under Thai law.
The fight took place around 4:30 a.m. on Soi Buakhao, a central Pattaya street known for nightlife, bars, and budget hotels. Officers from Pattaya City Police Station arrived after receiving reports of a street altercation involving injuries. They were joined by volunteers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan rescue foundation, a local charity group that provides emergency medical help and ambulance services.
At the scene, police found a group of foreign tourists gathered around an injured man lying on the road. A video recorded by a nearby resident showed one man kicking another in the face. The victim, an American tourist wearing a red shirt, collapsed and lost consciousness.
Rescue volunteers treated the injured man at the scene. He showed heavy swelling around both eyes and clear signs of facial injury. Paramedics then transported him to a local hospital for further care.
Police detained three British tourists nearby. During questioning, both sides said the incident started with a verbal argument after a misunderstanding. Witnesses reported that the British tourists had come from a nearby beer bar, a common type of casual drinking venue in Thailand. The argument continued outside a hotel and turned physical, ending with the kick seen in the video.
The case was handled by Pol. Lt. Itthipol Tangchuthawitthayapap, Deputy Inspector of Investigations at Pattaya City Police Station. Police arranged mediation, a standard approach in Thailand for minor offences. Both sides accepted responsibility and agreed to settle the matter peacefully.
Police charged all four tourists with fighting in a public place. Each paid a fine of 1,000 baht, about 28 US dollars. Officers released them after payment and warned them against repeat behaviour, citing the impact such incidents have on public safety and Pattaya’s image as a tourist destination.
