Canadian Family’s Vacation Turns to Grief as 10-Year-Old Drowns at Kata Beach

A family vacation meant to be filled with joy and relaxation turned into unimaginable sorrow when a 10-year-old Canadian girl drowned at Kata Beach in Phuket, Thailand, just one day after arriving.


The Karon Police told the Phuket Express that on the evening of August 7th, 2025, local police received an emergency call reporting a missing child swept away by waves near the tourist assistance center at Kata Beach. Lifeguards, and rescue divers from the Kusoldharm Foundation immediately launched a search operation.

The family—consisting of a 55-year-old father, 39-year-old mother, and their four children aged 7, 10, 13, and 16—had arrived in Phuket from Malaysia on August 6 for a month-long holiday.


On their first full day, they went to enjoy the beach together when tragedy struck. While playing in the water, the 10-year-old was suddenly pulled under by strong waves, disappearing before the eyes of her horrified family.

Rescue teams searched tirelessly for over three hours. At approximately 7:50 p.m., the child’s body was found washed ashore, bringing a heartbreaking end to the search. The scene was one of deep mourning, with the family overcome by grief.


The body was transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a forensic examination before being released to the family for religious rites.

Canadian Family’s Vacation Turns to Grief as 10-Year-Old Drowns at Kata Beach - The Phuket Express