Irish Surfer Dies on Phangan

The body of an Irish surfer has been recovered in Koh Phangan after an extensive search.

Michael O’Brien, 24, was reported missing last week while on a surfing holiday in the island. His father, who had been in Thailand for a visit, had aided the authorities during the search operation.

“It’s really sad, since Michael’s dad was really enjoying his holiday and was even overjoyed to meet his grandchild”, one of the victim’s friends remarked. Originally from Templeogue, Dublin, the dad-of-one O’Brien was married to a Thai lady and had been living in the country for a number of years.

The surfer is believed to have been caught up in the high waves of the island paradise. He is also thought to be related to Linsey O’Brien, who had met the same tragic fate in 2006 when she fell from a cruise ship, after ingesting an allegedly lethal alcoholic mix.

The Irish consulate in Bangkok, along with its Embassy in Malaysia has been actively assisting O’Brien’s family since the surfer went missing. His family will continue receiving support, as confirmed by a Foreign Affairs representative in a recent interview.