BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Budapest Police are now saying they believe the death of a Fredonia native on vacation in Hungary was an intentional murder.
7 News received the following response regarding an inquiry about the investigation into Mackenzie Michalski's death:
"According to the ongoing investigation being carried out by the Budapest Metropolitan Police the perpetrator intentionally murdered the victim. The suspect is under arrest. For the time being no further information can be shared about the ongoing criminal procedure."
Michalski was killed earlier this month. A 37-year-old Irish citizen was arrested after police say he admitted to killing her in his rented apartment in Budapest but claimed the death was an accident.
Michalski's family said in a new statement this week that they believe the man suspected of killing her did it deliberately, despite his claims.
Investigators say the suspect killed Michalski while the two were intimate. After her death, the suspect allegedly hid her body in his closet while he went out to buy a suitcase. He then allegedly put her body in the suitcase and took her to a wooded area near Lake Balaton, about two hours from Budapest.
In a new statement from the Michalski family, they say the "death was in no way accidental despite claims to the contrary." The family says it was a deliberate and violent murder, based on evidence they've reviewed.
Watch: 'Celebrate her and remember her': Candlelight vigil held for Fredonia native killed in Hungary
You can read the entire statement below:
"Update: We are relieved to be back in the United States and have Kenzie home with us – although not in the manner we had hoped.
Thank you from the bottom of our broken hearts for the worldwide outpouring of love, support, prayers, kind words and gestures you have all bestowed on our family at this unimaginable time. You have lifted us up—please continue.
We have been completely supported and cared for by the U.S. Embassy, the FBI, Antea International Funeral Home, many translators as well as countless people who reached out to offer services and love. The Hungarian Police have worked tirelessly to find Kenzie and arrest her murderer and still continue their diligent investigation. The head of homicide met with us several times to keep us informed. We were treated with kindness and compassion during our eight-day stay in Budapest.
One important point needs to be clarified. Based on all available evidence reviewed during consultation with the Hungarian Police, our daughter’s death was in no way accidental despite claims to the contrary. It was a deliberate and violent murder. After our encouraging interactions with the Hungarian Police and other authorities, we remain hopeful that Kenzie’s killer will be held responsible for his crimes to the fullest extent of the law.
#JusticeForKenzie #ForeverInTheLight"
A gofundme page set up to help bring Mackenzie Michalski home is still collecting donations. The page says the money will be given to Mackenzie's brother to help cover travel and funeral arrangements.
