A 57-year-old Australian tourist was injured on May 28, 2025, when a decorative cement panel collapsed from a Pattaya condominium, prompting authorities to initiate safety measures and the building’s management to pledge compensation.
The incident occurred around 5:30 a.m. at a high-rise condominium in the Khao Phra Tamnak area of Pattaya, Chonburi Province. A decorative cement shimplate detached from the 37th floor and fell onto a poolside gazebo where the tourist was seated, resulting in a broken leg and head injuries. Several resident-owned motorcycles parked nearby were also damaged by falling debris.
Preliminary inspections confirmed that the building’s main structure remains intact. However, concerns persist over the safety of three similar decorative panels still attached to other sides of the building. Pattaya City officials stated that precautionary areas around the building have been cordoned off and pedestrian access has been restricted to mitigate risk.
The condominium, a 45-story structure with over 1,000 units, was constructed approximately eight years ago and is regulated under Thailand’s Building Control Act. City engineers conduct periodic checks on such structures. Following a recent earthquake in Myanmar that raised structural concerns across Thailand, additional inspections were conducted at this site.
Building management has committed to dismantling all remaining decorative shimplate elements to prevent further incidents. They assured residents that the building remains structurally sound and confirmed that compensation will be provided for the injured tourist and property damage.
Officials also addressed online images suggesting the building was leaning, clarifying that the apparent tilt was due to the angle from which the photos were taken.
The incident drew the attention of Bang Lamung District Chief Patcharapat Srithanyanan and Pattaya City Mayor Poramase Ngampichet, who visited the site alongside building representatives. Building Manager Suvit Chaisatra confirmed that residents were informed promptly and that efforts are ongoing to ensure safety.
