Four Foreign Tourists Injured When Large Tree Falls at Ayutthaya Temple

A large tree suddenly collapsed onto a group of Spanish tourists at Wat Phra Si Sanphet in Ayutthaya Historical Park on August 16 at 12:30 p.m., injuring four people. One male tourist, identified as Javier de Esteban Lucea, 55, suffered serious injuries including a fractured right rib and two broken left leg bones, while three female tourists sustained minor injuries. All victims are Spanish nationals who were part of a group of about 15 tourists visiting the ancient site when the tree fell without warning.

Authorities from the Ayutthaya Community Foundation and Ayutthaya Hospital immediately responded, clearing debris from the victims and transporting them for medical care. Initial investigation suggests the tree may have been old and suffered internal decay or hollow areas at the base, preventing it from supporting its own weight. There was no rain or strong wind at the time of the incident, so structural deterioration is the suspected cause, pending confirmation from relevant authorities.

Following the incident, officials used chainsaws to remove branches and relocate the fallen tree to clear the area and improve safety for visitors. Ayutthaya Provincial Governor Chawanin Wongsakdichirakan visited the injured tourists at the hospital and directed related agencies to provide close care and support. He instructed the provincial tourism and sports office to coordinate with tourist police and ordered the hospital director to provide full medical treatment. To prevent similar incidents, he also ordered the Ayutthaya Historical Park and the provincial Natural Resources and Environment Office to deploy arborists to inspect and assess the structural integrity of all large trees throughout archaeological sites across Ayutthaya Province.