Photo: GoFundMe
The father of Mackenzie “Kenzie” Michalski, a 31-year-old nurse from New York who was tragically killed on a trip to Budapest, expressed his overwhelming grief during a vigil held in her honor. Speaking over the weekend, Bill Michalski revealed he was “still overcome with emotion” as he mourned his daughter, who was last seen at a Budapest nightclub on Tuesday, Nov. 5.
After her friends and family reported Mackenzie missing, Budapest Police launched a search. On Friday, Nov. 8, authorities announced the arrest of a suspect—a 37-year-old Irish man who allegedly led police to Mackenzie’s body and claimed the killing was an “accident.”
At a candlelight vigil in Budapest on Saturday, Nov. 9, Bill Michalski shared his deep pain over the loss, saying, “I’m still trying to wrap my arms around what happened. I don’t know that I ever will.” He added that Budapest was a place his daughter loved, calling it her “happy place.” “The history, she just loved it, and she was just so relaxed here,” he told the Associated Press. “This was her city.”
The police have not publicly identified the suspect, who was reportedly seen with Mackenzie at multiple nightclubs before being identified. According to their statement, the suspect took her to his apartment, where he later admitted to killing her. After the murder, he allegedly attempted to conceal the crime by cleaning his apartment and placing Mackenzie’s body in a wardrobe. He then purchased a suitcase, placed her remains inside, and drove to Lake Balaton, intending to dispose of her.
Further investigation revealed disturbing internet searches the suspect allegedly made, including queries on body disposal, decomposition odors, and Budapest Police procedures for missing person cases.
A GoFundMe campaign organized to assist with search and memorial expenses has surpassed its $35,000 goal, reflecting the community’s outpouring of support. Friends and family also created a Facebook group to share updates and memories of Mackenzie. Mary Eustace, a close friend and page administrator, posted a heartfelt tribute, describing Mackenzie as “a beautiful and compassionate young woman who dedicated herself to caring for others and making the world a better place.” Eustace added, “Kenzie used her humor, positivity, and limitless empathy to help heal her patients and encourage family and friends alike. We are thankful that Kenzie’s soul is now at peace.”
A second vigil was held on Nov. 9 in Mackenzie’s hometown of Fredonia, where loved ones gathered to honor her memory. Family friend Melissa Pietrkiewicz, who helped organize the gathering, hoped the event would bring “a little bit of peace” to those mourning. “That’s what this is all about, you know, a small community. We look out for one another, we love one another, and we grieve with one another when it’s necessary,” said Fredonia Mayor Michael Ferguson.
