In a shocking development that has rattled Pattaya’s nightlife scene, Thai police confirmed that 17‑year‑old Tunchanok Donhomla died from suffocation after her body was discovered in a suitcase near a railway track on 27 June.
The suitcase was found just 15 minutes after authorities arrested 45‑year‑old Australian tourist Simon Peter Carman. Police say Carman was "preparing to flee the country" when he was taken into custody.
Chief Anek Srathongyoo of Pattaya City police said the autopsy displayed clear signs of suffocation, and that the girl’s brain injury was not the fatal cause. He added that the body had likely been moved into the suitcase after death.
Further investigations revealed DNA that matched Carman’s on the body, suggesting he added it while transporting the corpse. Police now press four charges: murder, concealing the body, kidnapping and sexual assault of a minor.
According to police statements, early CCTV footage shows Carman entering a condominium with Tunchanok at 03:34 on 25 June, before leaving with a large suitcase. He subsequently loaded a bag onto a motorbike heading toward a railway line.
Following his arrest, Carman denied all charges and claimed the incident was a case of self‑defence. He told police that he had agreed to pay Tunchanok 1,000 baht for sexual services, but an argument led him to offer only 500 baht. In a video released while in custody, he expressed regret and warned other girls to be careful.
Tunchanok’s family, who live in Kalasin province, have called the crime a nightmare. “We feared the worst when we heard about her death,” said her step‑mother. “I want him executed.”
Should Carman be found guilty, Thailand’s law allows for the death penalty in cases of murder. Authorities plan to submit the case to prosecutors by Friday, with an indictment deadline of 18 September.
