A family holiday in Thailand turned into a frightening emergency after a large tree suddenly collapsed at a historic temple in Ayutthaya, trapping a Spanish tourist beneath heavy branches.
The incident happened on Sunday, 16 August, at Wat Phra Si Sanphet, one of Ayutthaya’s most famous historical sites. The Spanish family was walking along a tree-lined pathway when a large flame tree unexpectedly fell, sending thick branches crashing onto them.
Witnesses at the scene quickly rushed to help as the fallen tree pinned one of the visitors to the ground. Video footage from the area showed locals working together to lift the heavy trunk while the injured man lay beneath it, struggling with severe pain.
Locals Rush To Rescue Trapped Tourists
The trapped tourist was identified as Javier De Esteban Lucea, 55. The large tree trunk had fallen across his body, leaving him unable to move while nearby visitors and local residents tried to free him.
Rescue efforts continued as people carefully attempted to remove the branches without causing further injuries. Emergency teams later arrived with equipment, including chainsaws, to cut through the thick parts of the tree and clear a path for the victims.
After the branches were removed, rescuers carried the injured tourists away from the area and transported them to waiting ambulances for medical treatment.
Four Family Members Injured In Accident
Authorities confirmed that Javier suffered serious injuries from the impact, including a broken right rib and a broken left leg. His injuries required medical attention after the accident.
Three other members of the family were also hurt during the collapse. Juana Rodriguez Garcia, 58, and two young tourists, Mariona Pujol Soria, 14, and Carlota Pujol Soria, 12, suffered minor injuries.
The group had been visiting the ancient temple as part of their trip to Thailand when the unexpected incident happened. The sudden collapse caused panic among visitors at the popular tourist attraction, with many people stopping to assist before emergency services arrived.
Investigation Begins After Sudden Collapse
Following the accident, local officials began reviewing the situation to understand why the tree collapsed. The exact cause has not yet been confirmed.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet is located inside the historic city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples and ruins. The area attracts thousands of visitors every year, including both local and international tourists.
Officials are expected to examine the condition of the fallen flame tree and the surrounding area as part of their assessment. The incident has also led authorities to look closely at safety conditions around the temple grounds.
Tourists Receive Treatment After Rescue
The rescue operation involved quick action from local people, emergency responders and officials who worked together to remove the trapped visitors safely.
Images and videos of the rescue quickly spread online, showing the dramatic moments when locals lifted the tree and helped the injured tourist. Many viewers were surprised by how quickly people at the scene responded before professional rescuers arrived.
The Spanish family’s condition following treatment has not been fully reported, but authorities confirmed that medical teams attended to all four injured visitors after the accident.
The incident remains under investigation as officials continue gathering information about the tree collapse at the historic Ayutthaya temple.
Credit :Thai PBS
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