Scots lawyer murdered in Los Angeles as 'heartbroken' family plea to bring her home

The “heartbroken” family of a Scots lawyer who was murdered in Los Angeles are pleading to bring her body home.

June Bunyan moved to California to sit her bar exam after earning a law degree from Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen in 2022.

The 37-year-old, who grew up on the Isle of Arran, dreamed of being a defence attorney, her family and friends said.

Ms Bunyan suffered “traumatic neck injuries” in the attack at her home and was pronounced dead on September 11.

Local reports say Los Angeles Police Department detectives arrested Jonathan Renteria, 25, on suspicion of murder, disinterment, mutilation and sexual contact with human remains.

He is being held at Twin Towers Correctional Facility on $4m bail.

A fundraiser, which has already raised more than £5,000, has been set up to repatriate the Scot, who was described as “vibrant, infectious, and deeply compassionate.”

A post from her family read: “With unimaginable heartbreak, we share the devastating news that our beloved daughter, sister, niece, cousin and friend, June Bunyan, was tragically taken from us due to a violent crime in the United States. Our lives are forever changed. She was only 37.

“June was known for her vibrant personality, infectious laugh, and deeply compassionate heart.

“Exceptionally accomplished, she held multiple degrees, but her proudest achievement was earning her law degree.

“Driven by courage and determination, June moved to America to sit the bar exam and pursue her dream of becoming a defence attorney. She worked tirelessly to build herself a better life.

“June’s life was cut short so far from home, and we are now faced with the heartbreaking task of bringing her back to the UK. She can then be laid to rest with the dignity and love she deserves, surrounded by family and friends.

“We are asking for your help to cover the costs of repatriation to the UK, funeral and burial expenses, and any legal or travel costs associated with this tragedy.

“We never imagined we would be in this position, and asking for help is not easy. But any contribution, no matter how small, will make a meaningful difference, and help ease this burden during a time of profound grief.

“If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page and keeping our family in your thoughts. From the bottom of hearts, thank you for your love, support and compassion.”

You can view the fundraiser for June here.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: “We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died in the USA and are in contact with the local authorities.”