The heartbroken family of an Australian man stabbed to death at a tourist hotspot in Thailand is mourning the loss of their ‘beautiful, gifted’ brother and son.
Liam Michael Ross, 35, was found with stab wounds to his abdomen, leg and arm at Ao Nang Beach in Krabi early on Monday.
He was rushed to hospital but later died as a result of the injuries.
Mr Ross’s family issued a brief statement through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on Friday morning.
‘We are heart broken at the loss of our beautiful, gifted, much beloved Liam,’ they said.
‘The world is a poorer place for his passing. Thanks to family, friends and colleagues for their support.
‘We requested that all family members be allowed to mourn Liam’s passing in private.’
Ao Nang Police arrested US national Randall Owen Johnson over the stabbing and he was charged with physically injuring another person causing death.
The heartbroken family of an Australian man stabbed to death at a tourist hotspot in Thailand is mourning the loss of their ‘beautiful, gifted’ brother and son. Liam Michael Ross is pictured
Ao Nang Police arrested US national Randall Owen Johnson (above) over the stabbing and he was charged with physically injuring another person causing death
Witnesses reported that both men had been drinking at a nearby restaurant before the incident and reportedly had a disagreement.
They reportedly encountered each other again as the Australian man walked back to his hotel, which allegedly led to a confrontation.
Initially, the two exchanged words, but the situation soon escalated into a physical fight.
Johnson, 43, allegedly drew a knife and inflicted several stab wounds on Ross.
Photos from the scene showed it happened adjacent to the conch shell sculpture at the southern end of the beachside road, outside the entrance to the Holiday Inn resort.
Ao Nang is a popular tourist destination located in the Krabi Province in southern Thailand.
It is known for its nightlife and beaches.
Liam Michael Ross, 35, was found with stab wounds to his abdomen, leg and arm at Ao Nang Beach in Krabi early on Monday
Johnson allegedly drew a knife and inflicted several stab wounds on Ross
Mr Ross’s sister had previously posted on social media about the death of her brother.
‘As you may already know, we have lost Liam to a tragic incident in Thailand and jour hearts are broken,’ she wrote.
‘We appreciate your ongoing consideration while we grieve and continue to process this.’
Mr Ross’s family was being provided with consular assistance, according to a spokesman for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
‘We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time. Owing to our privacy obligations, we are unable to provide further comment,’ the spokesman told Daily Mail Australia.
