Tragic Boat Collision in Kabin Buri: Search Continues for Missing Local Yothin Sarai

In the sleepy town of Kabin Buri district, tragedy struck the tranquil waters of the Prachin Buri River. On this fine day, July 15, 2025, the gentle murmur of the river was suddenly disrupted by a collision between two longtail boats, a mishap that left one local man missing and another with minor injuries.

Amidst the dense jungle that whispers tales of ancient spirits, the unfortunate incident took place at a notorious river bend near the bridge in front of Wat Wang Bua Thong, nestled in Mueang Haad Nang Kaew. Here, the river stretches its languid arms over 20 meters wide, with depths plunging to five meters, a haven for both fish and fishermen alike.

The missing individual is identified as Yothin Sarai, a robust 50-year-old whose silhouette was last seen swallowed by the river following the unexpected collision. Meanwhile, Chatchai “Pern” Inphrai, a sprightly 43-year-old, walked away from the scene with light injuries but undoubtedly a heart heavy with the burden of what transpired.

Rescue teams from the esteemed Sajja Phuttham Foundation have rallied to the call, plunging into the formidable currents of the river under the shield of unwavering dedication. Boats and divers, like nimble water sprites, scour the mysterious depths in search of Yothin, while locals line the banks, their eyes bridges to long-believed river myths.

Eyewitness Chitti Nilkamhaeng, a 32-year-old who’s familiar with every rock and ripple of the Prachin Buri, recounted the harrowing moment. “They sped through the night,” he said, his voice carrying the weight of his observations, “moving swiftly as if in a race to beat the dawn—all in darkness.” The boats collided fiercely, an eerie symphony that would forever mark the river’s echoes.

Chatchai, despite the sudden dip into the inky water, managed a brave leap to safety. Yet, as his boat sank after setting fish nets—a ritualistic dance of sustenance—the haunting absence of his friend Yothin echoed louder than the river’s roar. His efforts to locate his friend in the capricious currents were as futile as trying to net the wind.

Upon hearing the grim news, Yothin’s son, Pisithphon Sarai, lost in thoughts of a peaceful dinner, found himself entangled in a web of bewildering grief. His father, the very soul who found solace in these lands day in, day out, had mysteriously vanished. Fear, pulled taut by uncertainty, now sat at their table.

The riverbank soon saw Aranya Phalaharn, Yothin’s devoted wife, arriving in stark anguish, children clutching her hands—a testament to love’s true call. Her youngest son’s pleas for his father punctuated the air, each call a prayer woven with love and longing. With incense smoke twirling skyward, Aranya sought divine intervention, urging the river to release her beloved safely.

With over 50 rescue officers now united in a chorus of hope, the relentless pursuit persists, challenging the very laws of nature. Yet the river keeps its secrets coyly hidden as local reports, like those from our friends at KhaoSod, hint at more uncertainties than answers.

This tangled tale of the Prachin Buri River not only unveils the risks hidden in its embrace but also the resilience of a community bound by unbreakable ties. Today, as the sun sets over the jade canopy, casting purples and golds on the river’s face, we hold our collective breath for Yothin’s return, believing perhaps that the river, in its own time, will make amends.