Pattaya, Thailand – An Australian man accused of murdering a 17-year-old Thai teenager whose body was discovered in a suitcase near railway tracks is reportedly exploring legal options that could spare him from the death penalty if convicted.

Simon Carman, 34, faces murder charges in the death of Tunchanok Donhomla. Police allege he strangled the teen during an argument at his condominium, kept her body in a bathroom for a day, then disposed of it in a suitcase loaded onto a motorcycle. He was arrested at Bangkok’s airport while attempting to flee the country.

CCTV footage reportedly shows the pair entering the condominium together before Carman left alone with the suitcase. He denies the charges, claiming self-defense.

In Thailand, murder is punishable by death, but one significant step Carman could take to potentially avoid execution is to plead guilty and cooperate with authorities. Thai law often considers remorse, cooperation, and other mitigating factors in sentencing, especially for foreign nationals. Some reports suggest he is weighing a guilty plea to negotiate a lesser sentence, such as life imprisonment.

The case has shocked Thailand, with the victim’s family demanding justice. Her ashes were recently laid to rest as relatives push for the maximum penalty.

The investigation continues, with authorities examining possible links to other cases. Carman remains in custody as the legal proceedings unfold.