Quentin Griffiths, the British businessman who co-founded online fashion giant ASOS, plunged to his death from an 18-floor condominium in this eastern Thai seaside town on February 9, police confirmed Thursday.
The 58-year-old was found dead on the ground after falling from his locked apartment. A police investigator told the BBC there was no trace of a break-in and no evidence of foul play.
An autopsy has been completed. No further details were released.
The Man Who Built an Empire
Griffiths co-founded ASOS in 2000 when online shopping was still in its infancy. The company grew into one of Britain’s biggest fashion retailers, targeting young shoppers with celebrity-inspired looks at affordable prices.
He left the firm five years after its founding but remained a significant shareholder. His departure from day-to-day operations did not mean departure from wealth—ASOS made him a millionaire many times over.
The Stress Factor
Thai police noted that Griffiths was involved in two ongoing court cases that “might have caused him stress.” They did not elaborate on the nature of the legal proceedings.
Local media have reported on a bitter dispute with his Thai ex-wife, who allegedly stole £500,000 from their joint company. The cases remain unresolved.
What Happened That Night
Police were called to the scene last Monday night after receiving an alert that a man had fallen from a high floor. By the time they arrived, Griffiths was dead.
The room was locked from the inside. He was alone. No signs of struggle. No indication anyone else was involved.
Thai police say they are treating the death as a suicide unless evidence emerges to suggest otherwise.
The Aftermath
Griffiths held a British passport. His family has been notified. Funeral arrangements are pending.
For ASOS, the death of its co-founder marks the end of an era—a reminder of the early days when a small startup became a global phenomenon. For those who knew him, the questions linger: What stress drove a successful man to a locked room on the 18th floor? And why, on that Monday night in Pattaya, did he decide to jump?
