Luciano Frattolin found guilty of the murder of his 9-year-old daughter in New York
An Essex County jury in New York has returned a guilty verdict against Luciano Frattolin, a 46-year-old Canadian citizen, after proving his responsibility in the murder of his 9-year-old daughter, Melina. The man was found guilty of second-degree murder and concealment of a corpse, following a judicial process where technological evidence proved key to dismantling his version of events.
The tragic event took place in July 2025, during a vacation that father and daughter were taking from Montreal to the northeastern United States. Frattolin tried to cover up the crime by reporting an alleged kidnapping near Lake George to the authorities, which triggered an intense search and an Amber Alert. However, the inconsistencies in his testimony alerted investigators from the very first moment.
Technology as a key piece in solving the case
The investigation took a definitive turn thanks to the meticulous analysis of the data extracted from the cell phones and the vehicle rented by the accused. As stated by the Prosecution, these records allowed for the reconstruction of Frattolin’s exact route, placing him in Paragon Brook, near Ticonderoga, the place where the minor’s body was found one day after the report.
Technological information was a fundamental piece of the investigation, because the phone records and navigation applications showed locations incompatible with the story initially provided by Frattolin.
Michael Langey, Essex County District Attorney
Judicial process details
- Finding: Melina’s body was located 40 miles from the place where the father alleged the supposed kidnapping occurred.
- Cause of death: The autopsy determined that the minor died by drowning, classifying the event as a homicide.
- Additional evidence: Documents were found inside the vehicle that suggested prior planning of the crime.
During the trial, the defense attempted to question the investigation methods, alleging that the authorities focused exclusively on the father without exploring other leads. For his part, the accused chose not to testify on the stand. It should be remembered that Melina resided legally with her mother, Kali Galanis, and was under the care of her father only for an authorized vacation period.
After a verdict reached in less than an hour of deliberation, Frattolin remains in custody awaiting his final sentencing. The hearing to determine the penalty he must serve has been set for October 14th, where he will face the legal consequences for the serious charges brought against him.
