Arrest Made After American Tourist, 31, Killed in Budapest

Bela Szandelszky / AP

Photos of Mackenzie Michalski, a 31-year-old American tourist tragically murdered while on vacation, were displayed at a candlelight vigil in Budapest, Hungary.

The family of Michalski mourned her loss as a 37-year-old suspect remained in custody. Originally from Portland, Oregon, Michalski was reported missing on November 5 after last being seen at a nightclub in central Budapest. Following her disappearance, police launched an investigation and reviewed security footage from local nightclubs where they identified Michalski with a man later recognized as the suspect.

The suspect was apprehended on November 7, interrogated by police, and eventually confessed to the crime. Prior to his confession, Michalski's family and friends initiated efforts to find her by creating a Facebook group for tips regarding her whereabouts. Her parents traveled to Hungary to assist in the search but received the devastating news of her death while en route.

“There was no reason for this to happen,” said Bill Michalski, Mackenzie's father. “I'm still trying to wrap my arms around what happened ... I don't know that I ever will.”

Authorities detained the suspect, an Irish citizen known by the initials L.T.M., on the evening of November 7. Investigators revealed that Michalski and L.T.M. had met at a nightclub, danced together, and later went back to his rented apartment. During what police described as an "intimate encounter," L.T.M. killed Michalski.

While confessing that it was accidental, he attempted to conceal his actions by cleaning up the scene and hiding Michalski's body inside a wardrobe before purchasing a suitcase to transport her remains. He then drove approximately 90 miles southwest of Budapest to Lake Balaton, where he disposed of her body in a wooded area near Szigliget.

Surveillance footage released by authorities showed the suspect leading them to where he had hidden the body. Investigators noted that prior to his arrest, he conducted internet searches related to body disposal methods and even questioned whether pigs would eat human remains.

“This was her city,” remarked Bill Michalski about Budapest during the vigil.

Mackenzie had previously visited Budapest multiple times and referred to it as her "happy place." At the vigil held Saturday night in Budapest, Bill wore a baseball cap gifted by his daughter and shared heartfelt comments with those gathered in remembrance of Mackenzie.