Family Releases Moving Statement On Murdered CHOP Doctor - Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29

Family Releases Moving Statement On Murdered CHOP Doctor

Posted: Updated:
Dr. Melissa Ketunuti's body was found inside of her Center City home Monday. Dr. Melissa Ketunuti's body was found inside of her Center City home Monday.
PHILADELPHIA -

Dr. Melissa Ketunuti was brutally murdered in her home earlier this week.  Her family co-workers and friends are just beginning to mourn the loss of this young, talented doctor.

Last night, there was a candlelight vigil attended by 80 or so of her neighbors, friends and colleagues from CHOP. Her family is en route from Bangkok to Philadelphia to bury their beloved daughter.

Friday afternoon, one of Melissa's college roommates was asked by her parents to release a statement on behalf of their family.

It reads:

The family and friends of Melissa Ketunuti are devastated by this senseless act of violence that has ended the life of someone who was so loved, cherished and admired.

Melissa was a loving daughter and friend, a dedicated physician and a talented researcher. She was known by her residency and fellowship colleagues as a positive and compassionate presence. Her passion for medicine -- international medicine, in particular -- was an inspiration to those who worked with her.

Melissa's friends from childhood, college, residency and elsewhere remember her many kindnesses, even during long hours, as well as her zest for life: traveling, running and spending time with friends and family.

Melissa was a source of joy to everyone in her life. Her passing has left an enormous gap in our lives, and the family requests privacy to mourn during this difficult time.

  • Local News

  • Monday, June 17 2013 10:45 PM EDT2013-06-18 02:45:53 GMT
    An unspeakable crime in Southwest Philadelphia. The details are very disturbing. Police say a man who is a paraplegic has been stabbed and his genitals severed by another man, after the two got into an
    An unspeakable crime in Southwest Philadelphia. The details are very disturbing. Police say a man who is a paraplegic has been stabbed and his genitals severed by another man, after the two got into an
  • Monday, June 17 2013 10:41 PM EDT2013-06-18 02:41:15 GMT
    The Rolling Stones will perform in Philadelphia on Tuesday night at the Wells Fargo Center. Fans will undoubtedly buy memorabilia to remember the event. One item being sold at an auction will surely catch
    The Rolling Stones will perform in Philadelphia on Tuesday night at the Wells Fargo Center. Fans will undoubtedly buy memorabilia to remember the event. One item being sold at an auction will surely catch
  • Monday, June 17 2013 10:25 PM EDT2013-06-18 02:25:38 GMT
    An armed deli robbery is caught on camera. Two brazen gunmen held up the store owner with the man's kids right nearby. It's scary enough having armed gunmen storm your business.
    An armed deli robbery is caught on camera. Two brazen gunmen held up the store owner with the man's kids right nearby.It's scary enough having armed gunmen storm your business.
Powered by WorldNow

WTXF-TV
330 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106-2796

Phone: (215) 925-2929
Fax: (215) 982-5494

Didn't find what you were looking for?
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 Fox Television Stations, Inc. and Worldnow. All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Ad Choices