Thanakarn Kanthee, a 21-year-old Tiktok influencer known online as “Bank Leicester,” tragically died after consuming two bottles of whisky in a deadly bet for 30,000 Thai baht (approximately $880).
Incident Details
The fatal challenge occurred during a birthday party in Tha Mai district of Chanthaburi on December 25, where Kanthee was offered 10,000 baht per bottle of whisky. Already intoxicated, he consumed two 350-ml bottles in just 20 minutes. Soon after, he lost consciousness due to alcohol poisoning and was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Authorities arrested Ekkachart Meephrom, also known as “Em Ekkachart,” who allegedly hired Kanthee for the challenge. During a raid on Meephrom’s home, police recovered a pistol, mobile phones, SIM cards, and bank passbooks potentially linked to a gambling site.
Meephrom confessed to the crime, stating that his mother, Supranee Phoonkasi, organized the party. Under Thai law, if convicted of reckless behavior causing death, Meephrom could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of 20,000 baht.
Outrage on social media
The incident has sparked widespread outrage online, with many criticizing partygoers for allowing the challenge to proceed and cheering while Kanthee collapsed.
Adding to the heartbreak, a viral post by Kanthee revealed his motivations: “I am willing to be bullied and insulted to just get scraps of money from the rich people in order to provide for my family.”
Kanthee had previously taken on dangerous challenges, including drinking hand sanitizer and consuming large amounts of wasabi, to earn money. His death underscores the dangers of such exploitative trends, where individuals, often vulnerable, risk their lives for financial gain and social media notoriety.
This incident has reignited discussions around internet ethics and the responsibility of those who encourage or enable such stunts.