Kamala police officer found dead in pickup at market car park
A police officer was found dead in his pickup at Maphrao Market in Kamala on 12 October 2026, with forensic officers investigating the cause.
Pol Sen Sgt Maj Atthaphon Mueangnok, an administrative squad leader at Kamala Police Station, was found dead in the driver’s seat of his four-door pickup at the Maphrao Market car park in Kamala at about 6.15pm on 12 October 2026.
A member of the public alerted the station’s radio centre after finding someone apparently unconscious inside the vehicle, according to a police report. Officers found Atthaphon unresponsive. The pickup was unlocked and its engine was switched off, and rescue workers later confirmed that he had died.
A charcoal brazier was found in the footwell behind the front passenger seat. Police believe carbon monoxide poisoning from burning charcoal may have caused his death, but the cause has not been confirmed. Forensic officers examined the scene and collected evidence, while the body was sent to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further examination.
Police reported no apparent signs of physical assault or disturbance. Medication for diarrhoea, motion sickness and other common ailments was found in the vehicle, while Atthaphon’s valuables were undisturbed.
According to the report, Atthaphon had been staying alone in police accommodation and was not known to have conflicts with colleagues or work-related problems. Colleagues said his behaviour had changed during the previous week, with the normally cheerful officer becoming more withdrawn. He had also frequently complained of diarrhoea.
He was last seen at about 8am on 12 October. Kamala Police Station has registered the death as an inquest case for further investigation, pending further forensic examination.
