In brief
Police in Pattaya, Thailand, have confirmed that 17‑year‑old Tunchanok Donhomla died from suffocation after her body was found in a suitcase near a railway track. Authorities say her DNA matched that of 45‑year‑old Australian Simon Peter Carman, who was arrested hours earlier for the alleged murder. Carman faces four charges, including murder, kidnapping and possession of a child for indecent acts. The case is expected to go before the prosecutor’s office by September 18, and if convicted, Carman could face the death penalty. The tragedy shocked the family, who call for justice for the young victim.
Police confirm a 17‑year‑old Thai girl died from suffocation. Tunchanok Donhomla’s naked body was found in a suitcase on a railway track near Pattaya on 27 June.
The discovery came minutes after authorities arrested 45‑year‑old Australian Simon Peter Carman, who was allegedly preparing to flee the country.
Police say the DNA on Tunchanok’s body matched Carman’s, indicating he placed the body in the suitcase before dumping it. They are pressing four charges against him, including murder, kidnapping a child over 15 but under 18, concealing a body and an indecent act with a child.
According to the master police officer, Carman does not fully deny the accusations; he admitted taking the girl out but denies murder. The case will be handed to prosecutors by Friday, with an indictment deadline of 18 September. If convicted, Carman faces the death penalty.
Eyewitness CCTV footage shows Carman carrying a large suitcase at 03:34 local time on 25 June. He allegedly promised Tunchanok 1,000 baht for sexual services, but after an argument he offered only 500 baht. The suspect’s video apology to her family expressed remorse and urged other girls to be careful.
Tunchanok, known as Cake, had left her home in Kalasin province for a holiday on 16 June. Her father, Thongchai Donhomla, said he was deeply saddened, while her step‑mother, Oradee Bussarakum, demanded justice and even threatened to strike the accused.
The tragedy underscores a rise in violent crimes targeting tourists in Thailand’s popular destinations, prompting calls from local residents for heightened security measures.
