Body of murdered Irish woman to make journey home

By Maria McCann

The body of an Irish woman who was murdered in India is expected to begin its journey home today.

But it could take six days for Danielle McLaughlin to be repatriated from Goa.

Post-mortem tests have found she was hit with a beer bottle, raped and strangled.

Over €30,000 has been raised in less than 22 hours to help bring her body home.

Danielle McLaughlin's naked body was discovered at a popular tourist destination near Palolem beach, Canacona in Goa on Tuesday.

A local man, 23-year-old Vikat Bhagat, who police said was a known thief, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is said to have made a confession.

It's reported the man accused of her murder met his victim a year ago when she was backpacking on a previous trip.

CCTV video footage shows the final movements of the 28 year old before she is believed to have been sexually assaulted and murdered.

Danielle who was from Buncrana but lived in Liverpool for a period of time was seen carrying a bag with a man following close behind her.

A just giving page has been set up to raise money to help the victim's family cover repatriation and funeral expenses.

A friend of Danielle said: "There's not really much anyone can say at the moment as I know we are all completely devastated. 

At the moment the family have the Irish embassy, the British embassy, the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust and many close friends working hard on the arrangements to take her home.

"The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust have been brilliant and cover most arrangements and expenses, so basically this fundraiser is to help her family with the added costs of having someone with her when she returns and to give her the send off she deserves.

"There is nothing I need to say about Danielle as anyone who knew her, knew that she was a beautiful and kind hearted, funny young lady who loved life and was a loyal and devoted friend, sister and daughter.

"They say the brighest stars burn the quickest and no other analogy could describe Danielle's life better, on behalf of her family thanks in advance for the donations and keep on smiling as Danielle would have wanted."

You can donate here.