Dublin – The mother of Irish backpacker Danielle McLaughlin, who was raped and murdered in India in 2017, has expressed hope that a newly announced inquest into her daughter’s death will finally result in the issuance of a death certificate. The government has confirmed that an investigation will proceed.
Danielle McLaughlin (28), originally from Buncrana, County Donegal, was found dead in a remote area of Canacona, Goa, in March 2017. A post-mortem examination concluded that she died as a result of head injuries and strangulation. She had travelled to India to celebrate the Hindu festival of Holi.
Following a lengthy trial, Vikat Bhagat (31), a local resident, was found guilty of Danielle’s rape and murder by the District and Sessions Court in Goa. In the wake of the court’s verdict, Danielle’s family—through their solicitor, Des Doherty—petitioned the Attorney General, Rossa Fanning, to request a formal inquest in Ireland. The investigation was subsequently approved.
Danielle’s mother, Andrea McLaughlin, welcomed the decision, stating that she is “grateful the matter is finally moving forward.” She added that she hopes the inquest will provide closure and assist in obtaining an official death certificate, which has been pending since 2017.
Andrea also confirmed her intention to supply the coroner with all relevant legal documentation and contacts related to the case.
Danielle, a former student of Liverpool John Moores University, had been travelling in India when she was attacked. Her body was discovered in a field by a local farmer, sparking a case that drew widespread international attention and led to a protracted legal process in India.
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