PATTAYA, Thailand – Local police in Pattaya were alerted to a violent altercation that resulted in a fatal stabbing on Pattaya Third Road on December 29.
Authorities arrived to find Mr. Seita Tanabe, 27, a Japanese national, severely injured with a knife wound to his chest. Rescuers provided first aid and performed CPR before rushing him to the hospital. Despite their efforts, Mr. Tanabe later succumbed to his injuries.
The suspect, identified as Mr. David, 36, a British-Thai national, was apprehended at the scene. He exhibited signs of heavy intoxication, with visible injuries including facial swelling, scratches, and torn clothing. Police also recovered the knife allegedly used in the attack.
According to a witness, a 22-year-old man referred to as Mr. Bank (pseudonym), the altercation began when Mr. David argued with his foreign girlfriend. Mr. Tanabe and others attempted to intervene, but Mr. David misunderstood their intentions. This led to a heated confrontation in which Mr. David punched Mr. Tanabe, escalating into a physical fight that ended with Mr. David stabbing Mr. Tanabe in front of onlookers.
Following the incident, police escorted the suspect to the hospital as he had a dislocated left shoulder. However, tensions escalated further when the victim’s girlfriend and friends, overcome with grief and anger after learning of Mr. Tanabe’s death, confronted the suspect at the hospital. They were restrained by police, who promptly relocated Mr. David to prevent further violence.
Law enforcement officers have documented the scene, collected evidence, and initiated an investigation to gather additional information and pursue legal action against the suspect.
