Pattaya, Thailand – October 19, 2025 – Barry Kenyon, a respected British author and former police officer, tragically lost his life on October 18, 2025, after being struck by a motorbike in Pattaya, Thailand. The incident occurred as Kenyon, 84, was crossing the road to meet friends for dinner.
What Happened
Barry Kenyon was knocked to the ground by a motorbike while crossing Thappraya Road, a busy street in Pattaya, Thailand. The motorbike, ridden by 38-year-old Rana Mama, a Bangladeshi national, collided with Kenyon as he was walking towards a central reservation just in front of a set of traffic lights.
Kenyon, a former policeman and headteacher from Lancashire, UK, had moved to Thailand 30 years ago and was serving as an honorary British consul at the time of his death. He was rushed to the hospital, where emergency workers attempted to save him, but he was pronounced dead shortly after the crash.
Investigation and Details of the Crash
The crash occurred outside Rung Ruang Company, near the Pattaya intersection. Authorities have confirmed that the motorbike did not run a red light but that the collision happened just as the traffic lights were about to turn green. Lieutenant Akrapong Saenputawong, the deputy investigation officer at Pattaya City Police Station, said the accident happened outside of a crosswalk.
Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage to determine the exact cause of the collision. Initial blood alcohol tests on the motorcyclist showed that Rana Mama was not under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.
Background on Barry Kenyon
Barry Kenyon had led a notable life, first as a policeman in the UK and later as the principal of Skelmersdale College. After retiring in 1995, he relocated to Pattaya and became an influential figure in the expat community. Kenyon was well-known for his clear insights on complex issues like immigration and taxation, and he earned respect from both Thai authorities and the expatriate community.
Kenyon had also served as the honorary British consul in Pattaya, where he played a significant role in assisting fellow Britons and fostering connections between Thailand and the UK. He also ran a local bridge club, which gained attention in 2016 when police mistakenly raided it, thinking it was a gambling den. Despite this incident, Kenyon remained a respected and beloved figure in the community.
Tributes and Reactions
Friends and colleagues have shared their condolences and fond memories of Barry. George Albert, a close friend, remembered Barry for his clarity and humor in discussing complex topics and praised his deep understanding of Thai regulations and his ability to bridge cultural gaps. Another friend described Barry as a gentleman who would be sorely missed.
A Community Loss
Kenyon’s tragic death has left the expat community in Pattaya in mourning. He was a well-respected figure whose contributions to both the local community and the British expatriates in Thailand made a significant impact.
The investigation into the incident continues as authorities seek to understand the circumstances of the crash.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
