A woman claims that her brother’s tragic drowning at a well-known Thai beach could have been prevented if the lifeguard had possessed proper swimming skills. The incident occurred at Freedom Beach in Phuket, where Jason Lambert, 37, lost his life after being swept out to sea due to a rip current, alongside seven others, including his sister, Lauren Smy, 30.
Smy described the harrowing experience, mentioning how they were quickly pulled out by a wave, leading to a frantic struggle for survival. Despite rescue efforts by the public and CPR attempts, Lambert could not be saved. Smy criticized the lack of training of the lifeguard on duty, emphasizing the importance of proper rescue procedures in such emergencies.
Following the incident, Lambert was rushed to Patong Hospital but was pronounced dead later that day. While a UK coroner attributed the death to an accident, Smy expressed her belief that the lifeguard’s inadequate training played a role in the tragedy. She highlighted the necessity of swift and effective water rescue techniques in such critical situations.
Lambert, a father of four and a bouncer from Colchester, was on a family trip to Asia when the unfortunate incident occurred. The police confirmed the timeline of events, stating that the emergency services were notified an hour after Lambert disappeared beneath the water during his morning swim with his wife.
Eyewitnesses recalled the chaotic scene on the beach, with tourists and locals rallying to aid those in distress. One witness described the rough sea conditions and the heroic efforts made to rescue the victims caught in the strong currents. Despite the rescue attempts, Lambert could not be revived, leading to a tragic outcome that has left his family and the community mourning his untimely loss.
