Loading

Another woman who said she was Tran’s childhood friend from Vietnam posted a moving tribute online.

“If one day, your best friend leaves you forever, will you cry, heartache, yes,” the translation of Jenny Mai’s post read.

“Childhood friends, play with each other… have you ever had a friend like that… carefree days with your college friends… you will [know] my feelings now and more… love you friend and heart broken.”

In a separate post dated three years ago and in which she tagged Tran and another friend, Mai wrote about their friendship remaining strong despite living in different countries.

“Words and images of you will never fade away… wherever you are, we are still good friends forever,” she wrote.

“We never leave each other, when I am in pain you are beside me… this is the true friend… my dear friend, be strong, be the most beautiful woman in the hearts of those who love you. My heart is broken because of missing you and more than ever.”

The tributes reached Vietnam, where a family member posted an Instagram comment asking “the local government [to] return justice to [Tran]”.

Police suspect Tran was murdered because someone close to her had ripped off a gang involved in drug production.

Tran is not believed to have been involved in any criminality and may not have known she was in any danger. Police earlier told media they believe the killing was targeted and not random.

Tran’s husband, who was out of the state during her murder, is not accused of any wrongdoing.

-With Perry Duffin

Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.