CHONBURI – A 63-year-old German national had a fortunate escape after accidentally falling into a 20-meter-deep well while mowing the lawn at his residence in Sattahip district on October 9. The man, identified as Mr. R. L., remained afloat in the water for approximately 40 minutes before being successfully rescued by local emergency teams.

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The incident unfolded when a neighbor observed Mr. R. L. working in his garden and later heard his cries for help emanating from the uncovered well. She promptly alerted rescue services, triggering a joint operation by the Sawang Rojanatham Foundation rescue unit and the local Disaster Prevention and Mitigation office. Upon arrival, responders found the man conscious and floating in the well, calling for assistance.

A 63-year-old German man was pulled to safety after falling into a deep well and treading water for 40 minutes while cutting grass on his property. #DEEPWELL #sattahip #chonburi #thailand https://t.co/v9HkIttpWQ

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) October 9, 2025

A carefully coordinated rescue effort lasting about 15 minutes succeeded in extracting Mr. R. L. from the narrow shaft. He emerged unharmed and was greeted by his relieved son and applause from those present. The German national explained that thick overgrowth had completely concealed the well cover, leading to his misstep.

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Expressing deep gratitude following his ordeal, Mr. R. L. acknowledged the critical role played by his neighbor and rescue teams, stating, “If my neighbour hadn’t heard my screams, I might have died today.” Local authorities have used the incident to emphasize the importance of regular property safety inspections, particularly regarding hidden hazards obscured by vegetation, to prevent similar accidents in the future.

-Thailand News (TN)