Advertisement

Father remembers daughter, 26, with 'radiant smile' allegedly murdered at warehouse

A Perth woman allegedly murdered at a warehouse last week is being remembered as a “beautiful person” by friends and family.

The father of 26-year-old Kayla Halnan led the tributes with a heartfelt message in the West Australian on Wednesday.

“A beautiful person taken from those who loved her dearly. No words can convey our sorrow. That radiant smile lives on in our hearts,” Keith Halnan wrote.

Authorities were called to Action Asbestos Demolition and Roofing in Welshpool on the night of August 13 where Ms Halnan was found.

She was taken to hospital, but could not be revived.

Police sources told the West Australian she was found with a gunshot wound to her back.

Photo shows Kayla Halnan, a Perth woman who died last week. Source: Facebook
Kayla Halnan was found injured in a warehouse and died soon after. Source: Facebook

A 35-year-old, identified as Vencent Stephen Caruana by The West Australian, was charged with Ms Halnan’s murder and faced court on Friday.

Caruana, a former state champion boxer, has not entered a plea and will remain in custody to appear in court on August 28.

Police sources told The West Australian Caruan and Ms Halnan were known to each other.

Nearby businesses said it was common for late night parties to be held on the premises, the newspaper reported.

Tributes flow for young victim

There has been an outpouring of love for Ms Halnan in recent days.

A photo shows the industrial site where Ms Halnan's body was found.
The industrial site where Ms Halnan's body was found. Source: Google Maps

“Taken way too soon, my love condolences to all the family right now,” one friend wrote on Facebook.

Another friend left a lengthy tribute detailing their times together.

“All day I keep thinking of these different events throughout life that Kayla was in... just random times, walking into town from school, seeing her at work, the parties, so many events,” the woman said.

A photos shows Kayla Halnan in a black formal dress.
Ms Halnan pictured in a black formal dress. Source: Facebook

“She loved a good time and always looked amazing. I don't actually think I have seen her without a smile. She loved life and would have been a beautiful mother.”

According to her Linkedin profile, Ms Halnan has been working as a business support officer for the past four years.

Her Facebook page is filled with photos documenting time spent with friends, travelling and days at the beach.

“OMG Kayla cannot believe this! So many good memories with you in Carnarvon,” another person wrote.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoo’s daily newsletter. Sign up here.