An Aussie tourist was reported missing in Thailand… three days later a lifeguard made a grim discovery that has devastated his wife
An Aussie tourist who disappeared in Thailand has been found dead three days after he was reported missing.
Anthony John Heathcote, 41, from Mount Gambier in South Australia, was discovered near Freedom Beach at Phuket, on Thailand 's west coast, on Saturday morning.
He had been reported missing by his wife three days earlier after her failed to return from an outing.
Police officers and rescue teams launched an official search for the Australian with a team of volunteers joining in.
A chief lifeguard spotted his body drifting 20metres from the shore and alerted local authorities.
Officials said the body showed no immediate signs of trauma and it is likely Mr Heathcote drowned.
His body has been sent for a full autopsy at Vachira Phuket Hospital.
Phuket authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
Freedom Beach is a secluded spot known for its crystal-clear waters and is generally considered safe.
The beach has limited access and relatively low tourist traffic compared to other beaches on the west coast.
Officials have warned tourists to exercise caution while swimming off the shore especially during monsoon season.
Mr Heathcote is the second Australian tourist to be found dead in Thailand in the past week after Melbourne roof plumber Corey Walsh, 22, drowned.
Mr Walsh, who hailed from Frankston, was on a boat tour near Koh Racha Yai off the coast of Phuket when he dived into the sea while intoxicated on Tuesday.
It is believed Mr Walsh was dragged underwater due to strong currents despite his efforts to stay afloat.
The 22-year-old was pulled from the water unconscious and unresponsive, with tour conductors issuing a distress call for emergency services at about 2.28pm local time.
Medics immediately administered CPR on Mr Walsh on the deck of the boat before rushing him to Chalong Hospital in Phuket where hospital staff pronounced him dead.
A GoFundMe was set up to help the 22-year-old's family with funeral costs and any additional expenses.
'This is for a Corey, a young man who struck a-lot of people's hearts for being a kind, caring and just a beautiful soul,' it reads.
'From a stranger, to family, to friends, he seemed to put a smile on anyone's face.
'We would like to help the family by doing this fundraiser to show support and just how much love this man bought to this world.
'Our condolences go out to the Walsh family and just a massive thank you for bringing up this one of a kind gentleman.'
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