An Irish man, identified by the initials L.T.M., has been arrested in Hungary on suspicion of murdering Mackenzie Michalski, a 31-year-old nurse from Portland, Oregon, who was visiting Budapest. Hungarian police said the suspect, aged 37, allegedly killed Michalski following an “intimate encounter” and attempted to conceal the crime by disposing of her body in a remote woodland near Lake Balaton.
At a Glance:
- Mackenzie Michalski, an American nurse, went missing after a night out in Budapest and was later found dead.
- Hungarian police arrested a 37-year-old Irish man, who confessed to the killing but claimed it was accidental.
- The suspect attempted to cover up the crime by hiding Michalski’s body in a suitcase and dumping it in a forested area near Lake Balaton.
Details of the Incident and Arrest
According to Hungarian authorities, Michalski and the suspect met at a nightclub in Budapest, where they spent the evening dancing before heading to the man’s rented apartment. During an alleged “intimate encounter,” Michalski was killed. The suspect reportedly confessed to the killing but claimed it was accidental.
Police said that after the incident, the suspect attempted to cover his tracks. He placed Michalski’s body in a wardrobe before purchasing a suitcase, into which he later moved her body. The suspect then rented a car and drove approximately 90 miles to a wooded area near the village of Szigliget by Lake Balaton, where he disposed of her body.
Investigation and Online Searches
Michalski was reported missing on November 5 when she failed to return to her accommodation. Following her disappearance, police reviewed CCTV footage, which showed her with the suspect at several nightclubs on the night she vanished. This footage helped authorities identify and locate him.
In the course of their investigation, police uncovered troubling evidence that pointed to premeditation. According to Hungarian police, the suspect conducted several internet searches after Michalski’s death, including queries on “how to dispose of a body,” “police procedures in missing person cases,” and even “whether pigs eat dead bodies.” Additionally, he searched for information on Budapest police capabilities and the presence of wild boars near Lake Balaton, raising further suspicions about his intent to cover up the crime.
Family and Friends Mourn Michalski
Michalski’s family, who had flown to Hungary to aid in the search, were devastated to learn of her death during their journey. Her father, Bill Michalski, spoke at a candlelight vigil in Budapest, sharing how much his daughter loved visiting the city, which she referred to as her “happy place.” Friends and family gathered to honor Michalski’s memory, describing her as a compassionate and caring young woman dedicated to her work as a nurse.
A Facebook group named Find Mackenzie Michalski was created to support efforts to locate her. The group has since shared tributes and expressions of gratitude for the authorities’ prompt attention to the case.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The suspect, who was arrested on November 7, has been remanded in custody. Hungarian police released footage showing him guiding investigators to the site where he disposed of Michalski’s body. Authorities have not disclosed further details regarding his identity beyond his initials, L.T.M., but confirmed that he faces serious charges following his alleged confession.
This tragic case has drawn international attention, and Hungarian authorities continue to investigate, aiming to bring justice for Michalski and her grieving family.
