Quentin Griffiths, the multimillionaire co-founder of online fashion retailer Asos, has tragically died after falling from his apartment building in Thailand. The 58-year-old British businessman, originally from London, fell from his 17th-floor residence in the coastal city of Pattaya on February 9th.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Emergency services rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a body discovered on the ground near the apartment complex. Authorities have confirmed Mr. Griffiths' identity as the deceased individual. An extensive investigation is currently underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding this devastating incident.
Locked Room and Forensic Examination
Initial findings indicate that Mr. Griffiths was alone at the time of the incident, with his room securely locked from the inside. Investigators have found no evidence of forced entry or any signs of a break-in at the property. While preliminary autopsy results have not revealed any indications of foul play, forensic specialists continue to conduct thorough examinations at the apartment.
The exact cause of death will remain undetermined until a comprehensive post-mortem examination is completed, a process that authorities estimate could take several months to finalize.
Asos Legacy and Recent Legal Matters
Mr. Griffiths played a pivotal role in launching Asos twenty-six years ago, contributing significantly to the company's early development and remarkable success. In 2010, he realized substantial financial gains, making approximately £15 million from share sales in the rapidly growing fashion enterprise.
The businessman faced legal challenges last year when Thai authorities arrested and questioned him following allegations from his former wife that he had misappropriated £500,000 from a company they jointly operated. Mr. Griffiths maintained his innocence throughout the investigation and was subsequently released pending further inquiry.
Family Statements and Official Response
A source close to the Griffiths family described the situation as "a real mystery," noting that while the phrase 'suspicious circumstances' has been mentioned, many questions remain unanswered. The couple, who separated previously, shared two children together.
A spokesperson for the British Foreign Office confirmed: "We are supporting the family of a British national who has died in Thailand and are in contact with the local authorities."
Asos Company Background
Asos was founded in 2000 by Nick Robertson, Andrew Regan, Deborah Thorpe, and Quentin Griffiths. The company initially operated under the innovative concept of selling replica outfits worn by celebrities in television shows, films, and music videos. This unique business model inspired the company name—ASOS, an acronym for AsSeenOnScreen—with the memorable tagline "Buy what you see on film and TV."
Since its humble beginnings, Asos has evolved into a global fashion powerhouse, now shipping products to approximately 195 countries worldwide. The company's expansion included the significant acquisition of Topshop, Topman, and Miss Selfridge from the collapsed Arcadia Group formerly owned by Philip Green.
