The airwaves in Thailand were saturated with disbelief and sorrow as news spread about the untimely death of DJ Ko, born under the name Trin Ruangkitratanakul, a celebrated figure in the radio industry. Aged just 36, DJ Ko plunged to his tragically early demise from a towering edifice in the vibrating heart of Bangkok, on the afternoon of November 17. As it stands, local authorities are treating this heartbreaking incident, which took place in the vibrant district of Khlong Toei, as a possible suicide.
Officers assigned to the case received a distress call around 1.30 pm. It was a scene of chilling silence, as DJ Ko’s motionless body was found nearby the culinary quarters of a humble two-storey domiciliary structure, just next to his temporary residence at a hotel on Soi Sukhumvit 20.
Hotel employees, still reading from the shock of the incident, recalled hearing a resounding thump against the fencing of the neighbouring home, which upon investigation, was revealed to be the fallen body of the respected DJ. Preliminary examinations suggest that DJ Ko had entered the hotel unaccompanied, prior to the incident.
Authorities painstakingly dissected the hotel’s surveillance footage which sadly illustrated DJ Ko in his final moments. The footage depicts a lonely figure, DJ Ko, navigating his path towards the rooftop via the fire exit door, a journey he made five times before making his final climb to the rooftop. Aside from DJ Ko, the footage revealed no other person.
At the chilling scene, investigators discovered his personal effects, including his mobile phone, a bathrobe from the hotel bearing marks of his blood, a keycard, smoking accessories and a lighter. The combination of these evidences, coupled with the circumstances have led law enforcement to conclude that DJ Ko’s death was likely a suicide. However, the investigation is still ongoing.
News of the tragedy struck a severe blow to DJ Ko’s family, leaving them in disbelief and despair. They expressed confusion, unable to piece together what could have led their beloved son and brother to such an unthinkable act. His mother, in particular, was at a loss, as DJ Ko was reportedly devoid of any chronic ailments or work-related pressures that could have led to such a tragedy, as reported by the Bangkok Post.
DJ Ko’s commanding voice over the airwaves, coupled with his passion for the radio industry earned him a well-deserved spot as a significant figure in Thai radio broadcasting. His award-winning presence on 106.5 Green Wave radio show was lauded by his loyal listeners and colleagues alike, making his abrupt departure a heavy loss in their hearts. Such was his influence that he was awarded the prestigious Nataraja Award for his stellar hosting of his entertainment and music shows.
In light of this shocking event, we would like to remind everyone feeling emotionally vulnerable to seek help. Samaritans of Thailand operates a 24-hour hotline at 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), and the Thai Mental Health Hotline is available at 1323 (Thai). It is a challenging time but remember you’re not alone. Reach out to friends and loved ones if feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression arise.
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