A heartbreaking incident has occurred in Thailand where 21-year-old influencer Thankam Kanthee, widely recognized online as “Bank Leicester,” tragically lost his life after participating in a dangerous drinking challenge. The young social media personality, who was known for extreme stunts to support his family, died after being paid 30,000 Thai baht (approximately $875) to consume an entire bottle of whiskey in one sitting.
Thankam Kanthee had built his online reputation through daring stunts, often involving risky consumption challenges that pushed his physical limits. His followers were captivated by his extreme performances, which included consuming non-food items such as hand sanitizer and large quantities of wasabi. His motivation was reportedly to help provide financial stability for his family, a factor that made his tragic death even more heartbreaking.
On December 26, during a birthday celebration held in the town of Chanthaburi, Kanthee accepted a dare that would prove to be fatal. Attendees at the party, including close friends and acquaintances, watched as the influencer attempted to consume a 350ml bottle of whiskey in one go. Spectators were reportedly cheering and laughing as he began the dangerous challenge, unaware of the life-threatening consequences unfolding before them.
Tragically, soon after completing the challenge, Kanthee began showing signs of severe distress. He vomited violently, and the mood of the party quickly shifted from excitement to panic. Despite immediate attempts to assist him, his condition worsened rapidly.
By 3:40 a.m. local time, Kanthee lost consciousness. Emergency services were contacted, and he was rushed to a nearby medical facility. Sadly, doctors were unable to revive him, and he was pronounced dead upon arrival. His cause of death was later confirmed as alcohol poisoning, a direct result of the excessive consumption of the whiskey during the challenge.
The news of Kanthee’s passing sent shockwaves across his social media community, where he had amassed a devoted following. Fans expressed profound sadness and grief, many leaving heartfelt messages in tribute to the late influencer. One heartbroken follower wrote, “I feel so sorry for you, brother. The person who let you drink alcohol must carry this guilt forever.” Another added, “Rest in peace, Bank. You deserved better. I hope your family receives the justice you fought for. RIP.”
The incident has sparked public outrage, with many questioning the ethics behind such dangerous online challenges and whether enough precautions were taken during the event. Kanthee’s death has since prompted an official investigation into the circumstances of the tragedy. Thai authorities have focused their attention on Ekkachart “Em” Meephrom, the individual responsible for organizing the birthday party where the fatal dare took place.
Meephrom has been charged with causing death through negligence, a serious crime under Thailand’s legal framework. The penal code states that such an offense can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years, a fine amounting to 200,000 baht, or both. According to official reports, Meephrom voluntarily turned himself in to the authorities and admitted to the charges brought against him.
The local court denied him bail, citing the gravity of the situation and the ongoing investigation. He remains in custody for at least 12 days while authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. The party was reportedly hosted to celebrate Meephrom’s mother the day after Christmas, a detail that has added further complexity to the investigation as authorities attempt to determine whether the event was premeditated or spontaneous.
Kanthee’s death has ignited wider discussions about the dangers of internet fame and the extreme lengths some influencers feel compelled to go for attention and financial gain. Social media platforms have come under fire for not doing enough to regulate content that encourages reckless behavior. The tragedy has raised critical questions about accountability, with many arguing that event organizers and social platforms must bear responsibility for promoting safer practices among content creators.
