Naked US man rescued from drainage pipe in Bangkok condo

An American man was rescued from a drainage pipe beneath a condominium in Bangkok on the morning of Jul. 14, 2025.

He was found in a state of undress.

The man reportedly refused help and acted aggressively during the rescue.

The 28-year-old, identified only as "Jack", was found with his legs sticking out of a drainage opening, Khaosod English reported.

Rescue efforts

Authorities were alerted to a naked foreign man who entered the drainage system and became stuck.

According to the Bangkok Post, Jack told rescuers he did not require assistance, and could get out on his own.

However, he began shouting incoherently and crawled deeper into the pipe as rescuers attempted to cut and drill through the surrounding concrete to reach him.

At one point, Jack bit the strap of a female rescuer's wristwatch and chewed it.

After he was eventually pulled out of the drain, he continued acting erratically and spat at emergency responders.

Rescuers had to place a face mask over his mouth and restrain him on a backboard for safety.

No serious injuries, but signs of paranoia

Initial checks revealed no major injuries, only minor abrasions.

However, Khaosod English reported that Jack showed signs of paranoia and fear, believed to be consistent with substance abuse.

Lived at the condo with his girlfriend

A foreign resident at the condominium assisted with translation.

Jack said he had been living there with a Thai girlfriend, though he could not explain why he had entered the drainage system.

Jack was transported to Somdet Chao Phraya Hospital for medical treatment and a psychiatric evaluation.

Authorities are working to contact his relatives and the U.S. Embassy for further assistance.

The condominium management is also looking into whether Jack had been residing at the property as claimed.

Top photo from Bangkok Post