The tragic and mysterious death of ASOS co-founder Quentin Griffiths in Thailand has left his loved ones in shock, with his girlfriend publicly expressing her disbelief that he would take his own life. Griffiths, 58, a London-born entrepreneur who helped launch the online retail giant, plunged from the 17th floor of his condominium in Pattaya, a coastal city south of Bangkok, on February 9.
Police Investigation and Circumstances
Emergency services discovered the millionaire's body on the ground below his balcony, and local authorities are treating the incident as a suicide. Police reported that Griffiths was alone at the time, with his room locked from the inside and no signs of a break-in. A post-mortem examination found no evidence of foul play, further supporting the initial conclusions of the investigation.
Girlfriend's Heartbreak and Disbelief
Jom Thipanongsri, Griffiths' 26-year-old girlfriend, has spoken out about her profound grief and skepticism regarding the circumstances of his death. The beautician told The Sun, "I just can’t believe he would do something like that. No one close to him ever thought he would take his own life, because no one saw any warning signs at all. And personally, I never saw him taking antidepressants or any other medication." She described herself as heartbroken and in complete shock, crying daily since the tragedy.
Ongoing Legal Dispute with Ex-Wife
The death occurred against the backdrop of an alleged ongoing legal dispute with Griffiths' Thai ex-wife, Ploy Kringsinthanakun, 43. She had accused him of fraudulently selling land and shares worth £500,000 from a company they operated together. Kringsinthanakun has denied any involvement in his death, which happened just days before their next scheduled court appearance. She stated that they had not been in contact for nearly five years after discovering his infidelity.
Background and Career of Quentin Griffiths
Griffiths co-founded ASOS in 2000 alongside Nick Robertson and Andrew Regan, serving as marketing director until 2005. The company grew into a £3 billion global retailer, with notable figures like the Princess of Wales and Michelle Obama wearing its designs. After leaving ASOS, he made significant profits from share sales, including £15 million in 2010 and further stock windfalls in 2013. He later sued his accountants at BDO, claiming poor tax advice cost him over £4 million.
Personal Life and Move to Thailand
A father of three, Griffiths moved to Thailand around 2007. After divorcing his first wife, he married a Thai woman and had two children before their separation several years ago. His relationship with Thipanongsri began after his second marriage ended, highlighting a 32-year age gap between them.
Reactions and Official Statements
ASOS released a statement expressing sadness over Griffiths' passing, acknowledging his crucial role in the company's early days and extending condolences to his family and friends. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed it is supporting the family and liaising with local authorities in Thailand.
A source close to the family described the situation as "a real mystery," with suspicions lingering despite police findings. The case continues to raise questions as those closest to Griffiths struggle to reconcile his death with their memories of him.
