Brit Questioned Over Hannah Murder

17 September 2014, 07:52 | Updated: 17 September 2014, 07:54

Hannah Witheridge

A British man has been questioned in relation to the murder of a University of Essex student found dead in Thailand.

The body of 23 year-old Hannah Witheridge was found semi-naked along with that of 24 year-old David Miller on a beach on the island of Koh Toa early on Monday.

Police said the pair sustained horrific injuries, with both suffering deep wounds to the head and face. A bloodstained garden hoe, believed to be the murder weapon, was found nearby.

The man is the backpacker initially sought by police following the murders early on Monday in Koh Tao, Police Colonel Kissana, deputy Thai police spokesman, said.

He was subjected to a physical examination including a DNA test.

Mr Kissana said the man had not been arrested but was questioned earlier today and asked to remain on the island while police await the results of the tests.

"Once we receive the physical examination report, including a DNA test, we will be able to determine if he was involved in the incident,'' he said.

He added that six Burmese nationals arrested over the incident after raids on their accommodation yesterday remain in police custody and have also undergone DNA testing.

More than 70 Thai police have been questioning migrant workers and tourists on the island, visiting hotels, bars, homes and businesses as they search for the killer.

The families of both victims have paid tribute to them.

Ms Witheridge was described by her family as "a beautiful, intelligent, loving young woman who poured joy into the lives of all who knew her'', while Mr Miller was a "hard-working, bright and conscientious'' young man who would be "sorely, sorely missed''.

In a statement, Ms Witheridge's family said: "She was selfless and caring and made each and every day that little bit more wonderful.

"Our family are utterly devastated and shocked by what has happened to our beautiful Hannah. To lose her in the way that we have is beyond comprehension.

"We are heartbroken and no words can possibly describe how we feel. As such, we would be extremely grateful to be left in peace while we come to terms with our loss.''

Mr Miller's family said: "David was an artist by temperament, so talented. He had a creative eye that he carried with him through life and in his degree.

"He was hard-working, bright and conscientious, with everything to look forward to.

"David was very giving to his family and friends and we all adored him. He will be sorely, sorely missed.''

A spokesman for the British Embassy in Bangkok, which released a statement yesterday saying they had no information to suggest any British national is a suspect in the investigation, confirmed that this is still the case.

He added: "The investigation is a matter for the Thai authorities.''

British consular officials from the Thai capital Bangkok have travelled to the island to liaise with local officials.