French Tourist Falls to Death From Thai Waterfall Attraction

Patrick Clarke
by Patrick Clarke
Last updated: 2:00 PM ET, Wed September 2, 2015

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock

A French tourist fell to his death from a waterfall in Koh Sumai, Thailand Monday, Khaosod English reported.

The man, identified as 24-year-old Florian Bourdla by the Daily Mail, was exploring a path above the Na Muang Song waterfall with his friend when the two slipped and fell. They were later found on the rocks at the base of the waterfall below.

Police were notified about the incident by a local guide around 11 a.m. local time Monday after loud screams were heard from the waterfall and other tourists reported seeing the two men slip over the waterfall.

Bourdla was pronounced dead at the scene by police and rescue teams, who struggled to reach the two men because of the challenging terrain. The height from which he fell and the exact cause of death are unclear.

The deceased's friend, 22-year-old Jeremy Marratche was transported to Bangkok Hospital Samui with serious injuries. The man suffered broken bones in his leg, hip, rib cage and arms.

Authorities have acknowledged that there have been previous accidents involving tourists at the waterfall.

And given the potential danger, Koh Sumai's official website even warns visitors to the "Purple Waterfalls" - named after the shade of their rock faces- to exercise caution and bring the proper equipment.

"The paths leading to the falls can be steep or slippery in places so be sure to wear some sturdy footwear and take care when walking," the website states.


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Patrick Clarke

Patrick Clarke

Senior Editor

A Maryland native and wanderer who has lived across the U.S. from North Carolina to SoCal, Patrick Clarke graduated from Towson University with a B.S. in journalism. He previously worked for Bleacher

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