Pattaya – A 77-year-old American tourist remains in a medically induced coma following a harrowing near-drowning incident at Jomtien Beach this afternoon. The accident occurred amid hazardous sea conditions that have prompted renewed warnings about swimming safety along Pattaya’s coastline.

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Pattaya’s Marine Disaster Prevention Unit sprang into action after receiving distress calls at 12:30 PM reporting an unconscious swimmer near Dongtan Beach. First responders from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation arrived to find the elderly tourist, identified as Mr. R.M., lifeless on the sand wearing only maroon swim trunks. Medical teams performed emergency resuscitation including CPR and AED deployment before rushing him to Pattaya City Hospital.

Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic rescue effort as beachgoers and lifeguards battled strong winds and rough surf to save the victim. According to witnesses, Mr. M. had been swimming when powerful waves overwhelmed him, pulling him underwater for several minutes before nearby tourists could drag him ashore.

Hospital officials revealed the tourist had pre-existing health concerns, having recently undergone treatment for muscle weakness. Doctors confirmed he arrived at the emergency room with only a faint pulse and remains in critical condition, his prognosis uncertain due to prolonged oxygen deprivation.

The incident has reignited concerns about water safety protocols at Pattaya beaches. Local authorities noted red warning flags had been posted due to the day’s hazardous conditions, which included 2-meter waves and strong rip currents. Marine safety experts emphasize that elderly visitors and those with medical conditions should exercise extreme caution when entering Thailand’s unpredictable coastal waters.

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Pattaya Memorial Hospital’s critical care team continues to monitor Mr. M.’s condition around the clock. The U.S. Embassy has been notified and is providing consular assistance to the man’s family.

-Thailand News (TN)