Geelong woman murdered by violent partner in Florida, days before Australia comes together to take stand against domestic violence
Monique Denahy planned to leave her violent partner, but he killed her in their Florida home before she could escape, a Federal MP and close friend said.
The Geelong woman’s fate caused MP Sarah Henderson to break down in tears in Parliament, while paying tribute to the 49-year-old mum of two.
“Monique had decided to leave the relationship and return to Australia but she never made it home,” Ms Henderson said.
“I don’t want to speak about the detail other than to say Monique’s parents, Fay and Frank, who both live in Corangamite and her beloved children, Sam and Zara, are devastated and shattered beyond words.”
The MP spoke ahead of today’s White Ribbon Day, a day which calls for a nationwide end to domestic violence.
Palm Beach County sheriffs are investigating Ms Denahy’s death.
They suspect she was killed by her partner, Daniel Millner, in an exclusive gated community on the weekend.
Mr Millner, 55, took his own life after killing Ms Denahy, police believe.
According to the Palm Beach Post, Ms Denahy and Mr Millner were found dead in a five-bedroom home in Alexandra Circle.
The Denahy family have expressed their sadness at the loss of ‘gentle and kind’ Monique.
“We are heartbroken to share the news that our beautiful Monique has died tragically whilst living in Florida, USA. Monique was a loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend and will be sadly missed by so many,” they told the Geelong Advertiser.
“Monique was so gentle and kind and had the most positive outlook on life. The circumstances of her death have left us shattered with grief. Whilst we mourn the loss of such a beautiful, vivacious person, we will also celebrate her remarkable life and cherish the time that we shared with her.”
Ms Denahy, 49, had a daughter in college in Victoria and a son at university in the US.
Family members are on their way to Florida.
A relative, Anthony Denahy, shared on Facebook that it had been a tough time for the Denahy family.
“Be there, call your kids, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles and cousins. Don’t forget your parents ... give them a call, share a meal with them ... you are because of them. RIP Monique,” he wrote.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
