Aiia Maarsarwe: Arrest made in connection with killing of Israeli student in Melbourne

Maasarwe’s body was found early Wednesday in Bundoora, a suburb about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Melbourne’s center.

The suspect was arrested by police in in Greensborough, another Melbourne suburb less than 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from Bundoora, police said.

Aiia Maasarwe is seen at Caesarea beach in Israel on January 23, 2017, in this photo supplied by her cousin Manar.

Detective Inspector Andrew Stamper said Maasarwe, an exchange student at nearby La Trobe University, had been the victim of an “absolutely horrendous, horrific attack.”

Police found a hat and a shirt about 100 meters (328 ft) from the crime scene, which Stamper said were believed to be left behind by the person responsible for Maasarwe’s death and were “key to solving this crime.”

Authorities released pictures of the clothing along with an image of Maasarwe from security footage the night she was killed in the hopes that members of the public might recognize something and come forward.

Police thanked the public for their assistance when announcing the arrest.

The killing has shocked many in Melbourne, which is considered one of the safest cities on the planet.

Maasarwe’s uncle, Rame, told CNN affiliate Nine News Australia her death was the “last thing” he expected in a country such as Australia.

“It’s not easy for the family, it was shocking,” he said.”You never think anything (like this will) happen in Australia, it’s a very safe place.”

Manar Masarwa, Maasarwe’s cousin, told CNN she spoke with her about coming to visit Melbourne in the days before her death.

Maasarwe told Manar life in Australia was “truly amazing” and was planning on staying possibly until the late summer. It was their last conversation, Masarwa said.

The incident comes months after female comedian Eurydice Dixon was raped and killed walking home from a performance in an inner-city Melbourne suburb, prompting a nationwide debate about the safety of women and the right to be able to walk home at night without fear of attack he late summer.

It was their last conversation, Masarwa said.