Melbourne park murder family mourn tragedy

The father of Melbourne woman Courtney Herron, who was brutally bashed to death in an inner-city park, says it's an "unimaginable tragedy" and has asked for privacy.

John Herron released a statement on Thursday, following the discovery of his 25-year-old daughter's body at Royal Park on Saturday.

"Our beloved Courtney was the victim of a fatal assault. A person is now in custody," the statement reads.

"My daughter's death is an unimaginable tragedy for our family. Please respect our right to grieve in private."