A tuk-tuk driver has been reportedly charged following the death of a Scottish boxer in Thailand. Colin Cairney, a 22-year-old welterweight from Stirling, was found unconscious on a road outside The Nature Hotel in Phuket's Patong district after a night out. He is believed to have fallen from the tuk-tuk, sustaining severe head injuries, and died at Vachira Phuket Hospital on Wednesday.
Driver Charged with Negligence
Local Thai media report that police in Patong located the driver, identified as Mr. Kitpong, a 34-year-old from Phatthalung province. He was charged with negligence causing death, failing to stop and provide assistance, and notifying officials. Mr. Kitpong, who rented the tuk-tuk from his brother, admitted to all charges.
Sequence of Events
According to reports, the driver picked up Colin and a woman, taking them to a hotel near Kalim Beach. When they lacked cash for the fare, they requested an ATM stop. Colin was driven to three separate ATMs but could not withdraw money. The driver then decided to return them to the original pickup point. During questioning, Mr. Kitpong claimed he was driving at normal speed when he sensed something wrong but did not stop. He only noticed Colin was missing about two kilometers down the road.
Boxing Career and Tributes
Colin had traveled to Thailand with friends after his latest professional fight in May. He boasted an unbeaten record of 10 wins, nine by knockout. In October, he won the WBO International Youth welterweight title in Hong Kong, and in his most recent bout, he claimed the Commonwealth International belt in Glasgow. Regarded as Scotland's leading young welterweight, he aimed for major shows and British honors.
His girlfriend, Summer McFarlane, paid tribute: "Colin you are the best person in this world... I lost my best friend and the love of my life today. I don't know how I am going to do life without you."
The Record has approached Thai police for comment.
