Unlicensed BMW Driver Fatally Strikes Transwoman in Phuket Road Tragedy

A fatal road accident in Phuket has sparked public concern after a young driver without a licence struck and killed a transwoman in the early hours of April 25.

The incident took place around 2:30 a.m. on Pathak Road in the Chalong area, near a local entertainment venue. The victim, Auttachai Deeprom, suffered critical injuries and was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

CCTV footage shows Auttachai crossing the road with friends when she accidentally dropped her mobile phone. As she turned back to retrieve it, she narrowly avoided one speeding vehicle. Moments later, while heading back toward the roadside, she was hit by another car.

The vehicle involved was identified as a black BMW 330e M Sport, driven by 19-year-old Archie Barrett. The case is currently under investigation by officers at Chalong Police Station.

Friends of the victim have voiced concerns about how the case is being handled, expressing fears over possible lack of accountability. They are calling for justice and adequate compensation for Auttachai’s family.

According to those close to her, Auttachai had run a salon business in Phuket for over a decade and was the primary financial supporter of her family in Nakhon Phanom province.

Reports on April 28 revealed that the driver did not possess a valid driving licence. The vehicle was covered under Thailand’s compulsory motor insurance scheme, and the victim’s family is expected to receive an initial compensation payment of 1 million baht. Authorities are planning a meeting between the driver and the family to discuss further financial settlement.

The driver now faces charges of driving without a licence and reckless driving causing death. Final penalties will be determined by the court.

In a separate incident on the same day in Bangkok, another BMW driver crashed into a KFC restaurant on Soi Sukhumvit 62, injuring 12 people. The driver, a Chinese national, claimed brake failure caused the accident. One delivery rider suffered serious injuries, including a fractured hip and head trauma, and his family has also appealed for justice.