Prosecutors seek arrest warrant for Red Bull heir

BANGKOK >> An heir to the Red Bull fortune failed to show up Thursday to face charges over an alleged hit-and-run that killed a Thai police officer almost five years ago, as prosecutors declared they would now seek a warrant for his arrest.

Prayuth Petchkhun, a deputy spokesman for the attorney general’s office, told The Associated Press that Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya failed to meet a 4 p.m. deadline. His office had said that if Vorayuth failed to appear, it would send his case to the police on Friday so they can ask the court for an arrest warrant.

“If it turns out that he is in Thailand, Thai police can find him and arrest him. But if he is abroad we will then begin the extradition process,” Prayuth said.

Vorayuth has been a noshow for meetings with prosecutors on several occasions, complaining through his attorney of unfair treatment or citing duties abroad. A recent Associated Press report revealed that he’s been living lavishly, traveling to Formula One races, snowboarding in Japan and cruising in Venice.