ISLAMABAD (PEN) : A devastating aviation accident occurred on Friday morning off the coast of Hua Hin, Thailand, resulting in the deaths of five police officers. The incident unfolded around 8:15 a.m. local time when a small aircraft, identified as a Viking DHC-6 Twin Otter, crashed into the Gulf of Thailand approximately 100 meters from the shore near the Baby Grande Hua Hin Hotel in Cha-am district, Phetchaburi province. The plane had been conducting a test flight in preparation for upcoming parachute training exercises.
Details of the Crash
According to Royal Thai Police spokesperson Archayon Kraithong, the aircraft was carrying six individuals, all police officers. Upon impact, the plane broke into two parts. Initially, five fatalities were reported, with one officer transported to the hospital in critical condition. However, authorities later confirmed that the hospitalized officer succumbed to injuries, bringing the death toll to five. ([At least 5 killed after police plane crashes into the sea in Thailand as horror pics show aircraft nosedive into water](https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/34634619/thailand-police-plane-crash-dead/?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [A Thai police plane crashes in the sea, killing at least 5 on board](https://apnews.com/article/28d0337255c5b87d51f7e7727f57b125?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Emergency response teams from Thailand’s 191 Emergency Centre promptly arrived at the scene, securing the area and initiating recovery operations. Photographs from the location show the wreckage partially submerged in the sea, with responders working diligently to manage the situation.
Ongoing Investigation
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Authorities are analyzing data from the aircraft’s black box to determine whether a technical failure or other factors contributed to the tragedy. At this time, no official statements have been released regarding the exact cause of the crash.
The incident has deeply affected the local community, as Hua Hin is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches and resorts. The crash serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with aviation, particularly during training operations.
As investigations continue, officials are committed to thoroughly examining all available evidence to understand the circumstances leading to this devastating accident.