I will preface this post with I am okay.
Some of you know that I was less than 200 meters away from Erawan Shrine when the bomb went off last night after 7pm local time. I was supposed to be out there on the street, but for some reason I went into a store for one last look before I left the Central World shopping center and headed out, towards where the bomb would go off, to grab a taxi. The bomb went off across the street when I was coming out.
It was like the loudest thunderclap I have ever heard. That is the only way to describe what the bomb sounded like as I left the shopping center. People were running and screaming from the blast zone, on-lookers were stunned by the horrorific nature of the explosion. People were covered in blood, bodies torn apart, crying and calling loved ones. I was close to what was believed to be a second device, shouted at in Thai, and hurried away. I can only describe the scene of what I saw as unadulterated carnage. The wreckage of motorbikes and bodies were strewn around the scene, white sheets adorning what was once an unsuspecting tourist. With an estimated 22 dead and hundreds injured, I never once thought I would ever be so close to such a horror while on my travels. I thought I specifically avoided turmoil on my journey. It just goes to show that it can happen anywhere, and you never know how close you will be when that bomb eventually goes off.
I can not put to words how this all makes me feel, I am only thankful that I was distracted enough to not be where I was supposed to be when the bomb went off. I couldn’t bring myself to take pictures of people bloody and shaken, or worse. These are the few shots I managed to take with my shaky hands. I just hope no other backpackers have to see the things I witnessed last night.
WARNING SEMI-GRAPHIC MATERIAL
THE ODD ODYSSEY 
Oh Josh I can’t imagine the trauma you experienced. It’s so random, isn’t it? You are one of a few Americans who have experienced such a barbaric act. Thank God you’re safe. Come home.
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Josh we are all so thankful that you were not hurt. Your post gives us insight into what went on yesterday. You did all the right things. My heart goes out to the families who were tourists like you who didn’t make it. Stay safe and enjoy your time in Ireland and Scotland. Love Nana
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I had heard about it on the news this morning and then to read your blog , my heart dropped. I thank God you went into that store. I can only imagine how you must of felt. Be safe and take care of yourself. I feel so bad for them. Love you.
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Josh all I have to say is I will be happy when your in Ireland.
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Josh, you are a smart, brave young man and a very lucky one. We are very happy you are safe. Love, Aunt Sue
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Josh, thanks for sharing. So sad that traveling can’t be the joyous experience it once was. I think you have a great outlook and I look forward to the rest of your travels. Odd odyssey to say the least.
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We are all so glad you are okay. I’m sure it will give you a different perspective on how precious life is now that you have seen how easily it can be taken away. Stay safe. We always say that phrase never believing it is really needed. Don’t forget the Claddagh
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Our hearts sank until we found out you were okay Josh. The pictures are poignant. Safe & happy travels. Peace to all.
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Somehow this is more poignant to me because you are somebody of somebody I know. The experience and images will be with you all your life. Your life. The life you are living now. Thank you for your writing so soon and letting us peek into that horror from your own experience.
-Faye Musselman (friend of David Stone)
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I wish you could have returned home able to say that the world isn’t such a dangerous place after all. But if I know you, this will only make you more determined to continue to travel, especially in Thailand. One question I have is about all the motorcycles. Did they lose their riders, were they parked, were they part of the attack?
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They lost their riders, in every meaning of the word lost. And yeah I’m still determined to come back, so many other places I want to see here.
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Josh so happy you are okay…When you touch down in Ireland-everyone will breathe better and worry less.When My roommates and I traveled–we never had to worry about terrorists or bombs exploding..The bombs were over in Vietnam back then with Al…Carry on with your journey. I am sure you will enjoy. maybe a little jig ..have you got your kilt ready so you can dance through both countries? Enjoy the last leg of your journey..All of us will be waiting for more beautiful pictures..Take care Josh……
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Sorry you had to experience such carnage…unfortunately no such thing as a completely safe place in today’s world.
Chill today and catch the earlier flight to Dublin.
My maternal grandmother was born in Ireland near the river Boyne(famous battle in 1690)
Drogheda(pronounced..Draw..hah..da)
North of Dublin in county Louth.
My paternal grandmother was born in Glasgow,Scotland.
Stay safe grasshopper and enjoy the rest of your trip.
LHK…..from gram and gramps.
orth of Dublin in county Louth.
)
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Josh–was just watching the news and they said another bomb went off today but it landed in the water so no one was hurt…are u leaving tomorrow for Ireland? was hoping you could leave early so you can continue your happy journey..Have you heard any news on young man in yellow shirt who left backpack…sounds like Boston marathon bomber…don’t forget to send your uncle David Stone pictures of food!!!! I will wish you a safe trip….My mother–Anna Small–always told me to travel while I was young because you never know if you will have good health as you age…I think you have good genes so you will have no problem…stay in touch with everyone….
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I am forwarding your blog to Ryan. He is really enjoying your pictures.
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