A puzzling and lethal incident involving cyanide poisoning occurred at the upscale Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand. Six individuals, two Vietnamese Americans and four Vietnamese nationals, were discovered dead in a hotel room on July 16, 2024, triggering a global investigation involving the FBI and Vietnamese authorities.
The deceased were identified as Sherine Chong, 56; Dang Hung Van, 55; Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan, 47; Dinh Tran Phu, 37; Thi Nguyen Phuong, 46; and Hong Pham Thanh, 49. The group had been staying at the hotel since the weekend, occupying rooms across different floors before meeting in a fifth-floor suite.
Investigations indicate that the deaths may be linked to a disagreement over a $278,000 investment in a Japanese hospital project. Chong, an investment broker, had reportedly convinced Thanh and Phuong to invest a large sum. However, as the project stalled, tensions rose, leading to the deadly gathering.
The bodies were discovered by hotel staff when the group did not check out as scheduled. The room showed no signs of physical altercation, but cyanide traces were found in a tea kettle, six tea cups, and the victims’ blood, according to Bangkok Metropolitan Police Commissioner Lt. Gen. Thiti Saengsawang. The room service food remained uneaten, although drinks had been consumed.
Authorities are examining the possibility that one of the deceased may have poisoned the others before succumbing to the poison themselves. Another person linked to the hotel reservation, the younger sister of one of the victims, departed Thailand on July 10 and is not believed to be involved in the incident.
Security camera footage revealed the six individuals entering separately and not receiving any visitors. The bodies were located in various parts of the suite, with four in the living room and two in the bedroom. Police suspect that two of the victims tried to reach the door before falling.
The U.S. State Department has extended its condolences to the victims’ families. “We are closely monitoring the situation and stand ready to provide consular assistance to those families,” stated State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller. The FBI will assist with the investigation.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has called for a quick and comprehensive investigation, urging all relevant agencies to act promptly to avoid any negative effects on Thailand’s tourism sector. “This tragic event underscores the need for vigilance and thorough investigation to ensure the safety and security of our visitors,” he said.
The Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, located in Bangkok’s busy Ratchaprasong district, is renowned for its lavish amenities and high-profile guests. The hotel management has expressed their condolences and is fully cooperating with the authorities.