Investigation Continues Into Murder Of Chicago Journalist In Belize
(CBS) -- A murder in Central America begins to hit home. The body of an executive producer from ABC 7 vacationing in Belize was found Friday.
CBS 2's Jeremy Ross has more on the circumstances and the latest on the international investigation.
39-year-old Anne Swaney was a world traveler and graduate of Northwestern University. She began working ABC 7 more than 16 years ago as the online operations executive producer. She was called a leader and online trailblazer at the station.
"Anne was one of those folks, she made everybody around her better. She made everybody around her smile. She was a fierce advocate for getting things right, and a fierce advocate for this news business," ABC 7 general manager John Idler said.
Days ago, friends say she was excited about her horse riding trip to Belize.
Swaney intended to be part of a group ride Thursday, but apparently stayed behind when they were one horse short.
Police say the group returned, but found her belongings on the dock, notified the resort owner, who then notified authorities. Police eventually found her body floating in a nearby river Friday.
She was staying at a resort, but the area is not free from violent crime.
While local police continue their investigation, it's unclear if anyone is considered a suspect at this time. Friends are only beginning to deal with the loss.
An autopsy shows Swaney was strangled. She also had blunt force injuries to her head. Police are also trying to trace her missing iPhone.
Anne Swaney's alma mater, Northwestern University released a statement when they learned of her passing.
"We were saddened to learn today of the death of Anne Swaney, a Northwestern University alumna. On behalf of the University, we express our condolences to Anne's family and friends. Our thoughts are with them," the statement said.