Peter Mitchell, the brother to BBC journalist Kate Mitchell, whose body was found in a Nairobi hotel last week on Friday has issued a statement on behalf of the family.
Peter said that the family is working with authorities and Kate's colleagues at BBC media action to understand what transpired.
"We are working with FCDO and with Kate’s colleagues at BBC Media Action to understand what happened. The circumstances surrounding her death are still being investigated, and we would ask you to ignore speculation in parts of the press and on social media," part of the statement read.
Read Also: BBC Journalist Dies in Nairobi Hotel
Peter added that the sister Kate was a deeply beloved daughter, sister, and friend who loved her work.
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"Kate loved her work and was tireless in her efforts to make the world a better place. She leaves behind many, many beloved friends and colleagues around the world. We want to extend our sympathies to everyone who knew, worked with, and loved her, and our sincere thanks for the many messages of comfort we have received. We ask everyone to respect our family's privacy as we grieve Kate's loss," he stated.
Read Also: Fresh Details on Murder of BBC Journalist in Nairobi Hotel
Kate Mitchel
Preliminary investigations indicate Kate was strangled by a man she was with inside her hotel room.
According to reports, the two had a heated argument that turned into an altercation before Kate pressed the alarm bell for help.
However, the man is said to have strangled Kate inside the room before she could receive help.
The man died after he jumped from the eighth floor of the hotel room as he tried to escape from the crime scene.
Addressing the press, Nairobi Regional Police Commander Benjamin Nthumbi disclosed that the hotel room was locked from inside.