Bangkok Hotel Deaths: Authorities Investigate Cyanide Poisoning of Six Foreign Nationals at Grand Hyatt Erawan
July 17, 2024 World
Thai authorities are investigating the deaths of six foreign nationals found dead in a room at the Grand Hyatt Erawan, a luxury hotel in central Bangkok. Traces of cyanide were discovered in cups and containers within the room, leading police to suspect cyanide poisoning as the cause of death. Initial autopsy results are expected on Thursday.
Victims Identified, Investigation Points to Personal Motive
Bangkok police chief Lt Gen Thiti Sangsawang identified the deceased as two Vietnamese Americans and four Vietnamese nationals, with ages ranging from 37 to 56. Authorities believe the incident was a personal one, unlikely to impact tourist safety.
Investigations revealed a financial connection between some of the victims, with a husband and wife among the deceased having invested money with two others. The group may have been meeting to discuss this investment, which reportedly involved building a hospital in Japan.
Security Footage Paints Picture of Events Leading Up to Discovery
The last confirmed sighting of the six victims occurred on Monday afternoon when food was delivered to their room. Security footage showed the group arriving one by one shortly after. No one was seen leaving the room, which was locked from the inside. A hotel maid discovered the bodies on Tuesday afternoon after the group failed to check out.
Police Search for Seventh Person, Rule Out Terrorism and Mass Suicide
Authorities are searching for a seventh person listed on the hotel booking who left the country on July 10th. Police believe this individual was not involved in the deaths. Officials have ruled out terrorism or a security breach, emphasizing that this was an isolated incident.
Cyanide Poisoning a Rarity, Prime Minister Orders Swift Investigation
The use of cyanide poisoning in this case is uncommon. In 2023, Thailand witnessed the case of "Am Cyanide," a serial killer who used cyanide to poison at least 14 people.
Prime Minister Settha Thavisin has ordered a swift investigation to minimize any potential damage to Thailand's tourism industry.