A 62-year-old woman who works as a beauty instructor was taken into custody for allegedly stabbing her younger boyfriend and burying his body in her backyard.
The body of Alex Sandro da Silva Rocha, 21, was found in Bebedouro, Sao Paulo, Brazil, last week. Police reported that the victim was stabbed in the chest with scissors. Jussara Luzia Fernandes admitted to the crime, as per Brazilian media reports.
In January, Fernandes became a widow when her husband was discovered dead in their swimming pool, with his death being ruled accidental. Following her confession, the Civil Police will now investigate this recent death.
During a search of Fernandes’ residence last week, authorities interrogated her. Although she initially denied any involvement, police observed a freshly dug hole in the backyard near the house. Despite her claim that she buried her dog, the Fire Department unearthed the victim’s body.
After being apprehended, Fernandes confessed to a dispute with her boyfriend that escalated, leading her to use scissors to “protect herself” by stabbing him multiple times. Police mentioned that she hired someone to dig the grave for the victim.
Detective Joao Vitor Silverio revealed that Fernandes involved her son in moving the body out of the house. She is currently detained and facing charges of homicide and concealing a corpse.
The victim’s mother spoke out, describing her son’s abusive relationship with Fernandes. She mentioned that her son was attempting to leave the controlling and possessive Fernandes. The mother hopes for justice to prevail.
Reportedly, Fernandes restricted her boyfriend’s movements, even when he tried to leave the house. The victim’s mother accused Fernandes of drugging her son to render him powerless, leading to his death. She also claimed that Fernandes impersonated her son during phone calls after his death.
The victim’s mother stated that her son wanted to end the relationship due to Fernandes’ controlling behavior. She alleged that Fernandes once ran over her son’s foot with a car during a heated argument.
If you or someone you know is facing domestic abuse, seek help by contacting the National Domestic Abuse Freephone Helpline on 0808 2000 247 or visiting womensaid.co.uk. AAFDA (Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse) provides specialized support for those affected by fatal domestic abuse. Visit aafda.org.uk for more information.