BANGKOK — A 54-year-old American man died in Bangkok following a conflict that police described as stemming from a romantic dispute involving his ex-girlfriend and her new boyfriend.

According to Thai authorities, the victim, Stein Heath Cole, from California, arrived at a Bangkok store on the afternoon of February 16, around 4:30 PM, where an altercation with four men occurred. Police stated that Cole was carrying a kitchen knife about 10 inches long, which is believed to have provoked the conflict.

The victim was found on the sidewalk with multiple severe injuries. At the scene, police recovered a knife and a metal pipe.

Four People Charged

The woman’s current boyfriend, 26, along with three others — including her brother — have been charged with “jointly assaulting another person resulting in death.”

One of the suspects was also injured and taken to the hospital.

Initial Cause

According to the commander of Bangmod police station, the conflict originated from a personal dispute after the relationship between Cole and his ex-girlfriend ended. Police said the victim did not accept the breakup and continued to seek out the woman.

The woman’s family reportedly did not approve of her previous relationship with the American citizen.

Investigation and Diplomatic Coordination

Thai authorities stated they have contacted the U.S. Embassy to report the incident. The investigation is ongoing to clarify the full sequence of events.

Police said initial statements indicate the motive stemmed from a romantic dispute and family conflict.