Tragedy Unfolds at Grand Hyatt Erawan as Six Vietnamese and Vietnamese-Americans Found Dead
On Tuesday, the bodies of six people, including two U.S. citizens, were discovered in a luxury hotel room in central Bangkok. Thai police suspect the victims, all Vietnamese and Vietnamese-American, died from cyanide poisoning following a dispute linked to a failed business investment.
Cyanide Found in Tea and Coffee Cups at Grand Hyatt Erawan
Hotel staff found the bodies of three men and three women, aged 37 to 56, in a fifth-floor suite at the five-star Grand Hyatt Erawan. The room was locked from the inside, but a backdoor was left unlocked. A table was set with untouched food wrapped in plastic, and used cups and mugs were found with traces of a white powder.
Trairong Phiewphan, Chief of the Police Forensic Office, confirmed that cyanide was discovered in the liquid inside a teapot and all six coffee cups in the room. At least one blood sample from a deceased man also tested positive for the chemical.
Bangkok Hotel Tragedy Linked to Failed Investment Dispute
Interviews with relatives indicated the Bangkok hotel deaths were linked to a dispute over debt and a failed business investment. One of the deceased was an investment agent, and the group had made an appointment to discuss the matter in Thailand.
The victims arrived in Thailand on various dates and had booked separate rooms at the hotel. On July 15, they all moved into the same room and ordered room service at around 2 p.m. local time. Security footage showed no one leaving or entering the suite after 2:17 p.m.
U.S. and Vietnamese Embassies Offer Assistance
The U.S. State Department acknowledged the deaths of two U.S. citizens in Bangkok and stated they are closely monitoring the situation. Vietnam’s government said its embassy in Thailand is closely coordinating with Thai authorities.
The Grand Hyatt Erawan is located in a bustling tourist area in the heart of Bangkok, near the famous Erawan shrine. The hotel is known for its luxury accommodations and amenities.
The investigation is ongoing, with the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation assisting Thai authorities. The incident is not believed to be related to terrorism or a lack of security at the hotel.
