Rachel was everything to her 7-year-old son. On Friday, she was killed in her home.

Rachel McKenna was a breath of fresh air. She was vibrant, generous, and so very loved.

The 35-year-old grew up in Palmerston North, New Zealand and called Melbourne home for several years.

She was an adored daughter, big sister, aunty and a devoted mother to her seven-year-old son, Leo.

Leo was her entire world. But just after 4pm on January 31, she was taken from him. Rachel was found dead at a home on Ormond Road, Ascot Vale.

The Daily Mail reports that Rachel's estranged boyfriend, who is yet to be named, is believed to have fled the scene.

Less than two hours later, police were called to the Princes Freeway at Little River, near Geelong, where a man known to Rachel, believed to be her former partner, was found with critical injuries.

He died at the scene.

"The exact circumstances surrounding the incidents continue to be investigated, however at this stage detectives are not looking for anyone else in relation to the matters," police said.

Rachel McKenna adored her seven-year-old son. Image: GoFundMe.

Rachel's tragic death has left her family "broken with grief".

"She was generous, vibrant, loyal, and looked forward to many adventures with her precious son," her sister Meg wrote on social media.

"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.

Her uncle Terry added: "Rachel's grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and her many, many friends are also struggling with this senseless loss."

In a desperate plea, her family urged action to stamp out violence against women.

"Something must be done to stop violence against women in this country," Meg said.

Rachel was the seventh woman killed this year, according to Sherele Moody's Australian Femicide Watch.

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been set up by Rachel's brother-in-law to support her family and help cover funeral costs. You can find it here.

Feature image: Rachel McKenna's Obituary.