Russian Tourist Killed in Phuket Minibus Collision

A Russian tourist was killed after being struck by a minibus while crossing a coastal road in Phuket, police reported. The incident occurred around 3:45 PM on February 9, 2026, outside the Almerol Hotel on Beach Road in Karon subdistrict, Muang district. Police Lieutenant Colonel Aeksak Khwanwan said the victim, identified as Aleksandr Bondarenko, 39, was attempting to cross the road with friends when the minibus driver, Santichai Chatree, 38, could not stop in time. Bondarenko was taken to Chalong Hospital but died from his injuries. The driver passed a breathalyzer test, and authorities are reviewing CCTV footage. The Russian embassy has been notified, and legal proceedings will continue according to Thai law.