Irish man’s lawyer: The death of the American woman was an accident
American citizen Mackenzie Michalski went missing in Budapest on 5 November. After a couple of hours, police found her murderer, a 37-year-old Irish man who confessed his crime. He claims it was an accident, while others believe it was a brutal murder… What’s the truth?
Brutal murder or accident?
As Blikk writes, an Irish man has been arrested in connection with the disappearance and suspected murder of Kenzie, who went missing in Budapest on 5 November. Kenzie was last seen at Szimpla Kert nightclub, prompting a city-wide search when she failed to return from her night out. Within 24 hours, police apprehended the 37-year-old Irish tourist, who had arrived in Budapest a week earlier.
Authorities believe that after meeting Kenzie, the man took her to his rented apartment, where he killed her. He then attempted to conceal her body in a suitcase, which he transported in the boot of his rental car to a marshy area in Szigliget. The suspect has been detained for 30 days due to the risk of flight, though this decision remains subject to appeal.
Many loved Kenzie
At a memorial service outside the US Embassy in Budapest, the parents of Mackenzie Michalski expressed deep gratitude to the Hungarian community and police for their unwavering efforts in the search for their daughter, who was tragically murdered. Friends, family, and former colleagues gathered to honour the 31-year-old, lighting candles in her memory. Mackenzie was remembered for her compassion and dedication to her work, with a former colleague noting her genuine care for patients beyond medical treatment. Being a nurse wasn’t just a job for Kenzie, it was a vocation. She lived in Portland, Oregon and was known and loved by many.
Mackenzie, a keen traveller who loved Budapest for its vibrant culture and cuisine, had a special fondness for the city. Her parents, now remaining in Hungary, are committed to staying as long as needed to support the investigation and seek justice for their daughter. The Irish man suspected in her murder appeared in court on Sunday, where his arrest was confirmed.
The Irish man’s lawyer believes it was an accident
The Irish man suspected of Mackenzie Michalski’s murder has denied guilt in court, with his lawyer, József Pásztor, stating that he claims her death was an accident. According to Pásztor, the 37-year-old man, who has no prior criminal record in Ireland or the UK, maintains that the incident was a tragic mishap. To our information, the autopsy and forensic examination are still pending, and authorities have yet to confirm the cause of death. We will keep our readers updated as more details emerge about the case.
Read also: