Police found a man with critical injuries about two hours later on the Princes Freeway in Little River.

He has not been identified, but police confirmed he was known to McKenna.

Loved ones have since taken to social media to pay tribute to the mother, with her sister, Meg Trotter, expressing that the family was “absolutely devastated”.

“Our family is broken with grief,” she said.

“Rachel was a deeply loved daughter, a doting aunty, a dear friend to many, and a completely devoted mother to her seven-year-old.

“She was generous, vibrant, loyal, and looked forward to many adventures with her precious son.”

Trotter urged the government to do something about violence against women.

“Our darling girl is already so missed, forever leaving a hole in our hearts and lives. Her death was an unnecessary tragedy, one we never dreamed would impact our family,” she said.

“Something must be done to stop violence against women in this country.”

A GoFundMe has since been set up to help cover the costs of her memorial service.

Help is available from the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.