Australian Man Charged with Murder After Thai Teen Dies from Suffocation

Thai authorities disclosed that 17-year-old Tunchanok Donhomla, called “Cake,” died from suffocation and a brain injury, according to an autopsy presented to one outlet. Australian national Simon Carman, 45, was detained after being stopped at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport in late June while trying to fly to Australia. Police allege Carman met the teen near Pattaya Beach on June 25, took her to his condo, and later argued over a payment of 1,000 baht, after which her naked body was found in a suitcase near railway tracks.

DNA collected from Carman matched material on the victim, and investigators say they have gathered all evidence, aiming to submit the file to prosecutors by August 21. Prosecutors have until September 18 to file charges, which could carry the death penalty or life imprisonment. The victim’s father expressed relief at the progress, while relatives called for the maximum penalty; Carman remains in Pattaya Remand Prison without visitors.