ASOS Co-Founder Quentin Griffiths Dies in Thailand Apartment Incident
Quentin Griffiths, one of the original co-founders of the global online fashion retailer ASOS, has died in Thailand. The tragic incident occurred on February 9, when Griffiths fell from his 17th-floor apartment in the coastal city of Pattaya.
Details of the Incident
Emergency services rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a body lying on the ground near the apartment block. The body was later identified as the 58-year-old Londoner. Authorities reported that Griffiths was alone at the time, with the room locked from the inside.
There was no evidence of any break-ins, and initial autopsy results did not indicate foul play. However, forensic tests are continuing at the property. A full post-mortem examination is underway, which could take several months to determine the exact cause of death.
Background on Quentin Griffiths
Griffiths helped launch ASOS 26 years ago, playing a key role in establishing the company that would become a fashion powerhouse. In 2010, he made approximately £15 million from share sales. ASOS was founded by Griffiths along with Nick Robertson, Andrew Regan, and Deborah Thorpe.
The company began as a platform selling replicas of outfits worn by celebrities on television, in films, and in music videos. This concept gave rise to the name ASOS, an acronym for AsSeenOnScreen. Since its launch in 2000, ASOS has expanded significantly, now shipping to around 195 countries and acquiring brands like Topshop, Topman, and Miss Selfridge from the defunct Arcadia Group.
Recent Legal Issues
Last year, Griffiths was arrested and questioned by detectives after his Thai ex-wife alleged he had stolen £500,000 from a company they both ran. He was released under investigation and maintained his innocence throughout the process.
The couple had a son and daughter prior to their separation. A source close to Griffiths' family described the situation as "a real mystery," noting that while "suspicious circumstances" have been mentioned, many questions remain unanswered.
Official Response
A Foreign Office spokesman confirmed: "We are supporting the family of a British national who has died in Thailand and are in contact with the local authorities." The investigation continues as authorities work to piece together the events leading to Griffiths' death.
