CHUMPHON, Thailand — Three Thai fishermen died from toxic gas exposure aboard a fishing vessel anchored off Chumphon province on the night of June 28, after a fish storage tank collapsed and released hydrogen sulfide gas in an enclosed lower-deck area. A fourth crew member remains hospitalized in critical condition.
The accident occurred shortly after the crew had finished unloading fish caught two days earlier from waters near the Chumphon-Prachuap Khiri Khan border. According to preliminary accounts, the storage tank overturned while the vessel was docked, causing fish to spill across the floor and triggering the rapid buildup of hydrogen sulfide—a gas known to form from decaying organic matter in confined spaces.
Within minutes, one crew member who entered the hold began convulsing and lost consciousness. Three others who attempted to assist also fell unconscious due to the toxic fumes.
A fifth crew member, equipped with an air pump and breathing mask, managed to retrieve the four men and brought them to Pak Nam Chumphon Hospital, which is located approximately 300 meters from the dock. Despite emergency treatment, three were pronounced dead on arrival.
Hydrogen sulfide poisoning is a recognized risk in the fishing industry, particularly when fish are stored in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. The gas, often undetectable without specialized sensors, can be fatal in high concentrations.
The deceased fishermen—identified as Noi, 45; Wirayuth, 37; and Pramote, 33—were residents of Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Their families have since arrived at the hospital to collect the bodies for religious rites. Local media outlet Khaosod English first reported the incident.
