The disappearance of Co.Cork-native, Karen, last April sparked a massive city-wide manhunt which came to a devastating end four days later when the young woman's remains were found on a remote farm in Glasgow.
Having initially denied having any involvement in Karen's tragic demise, 21-year-old Alexander Pacteau ultimately pled guilty to the Irish woman's murder and will arrive in court this morning in order to learn his sentence.
Having targeted Karen after a night out with friends, the young man then murdered the Irish student before attempting to dispose of her body in a vat of chemicals - actions which Glasgow High Court Judge Lady Rae has deemed 'callous' and 'calculating' and factors which she asserts will play a role in sentencing.
While Mr. Pacteau will be given the mandatory life sentence, Judge Lady Rae will this morning decide on a minimum sentence he must serve behind bars before he is eligible for parole.
Karen's heartbroken parents and three brothers, who have been left devastated by the death of their much-loved daughter and sister, have asserted they want the 'evil killer' to spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Our thoughts are with Karen's family and friends this morning.
Update, 10.20 am: Alexander Pacteau has been jailed for 23 years at the High Court in Glasgow for the murder of Irish student Karen Buckley.
