Melina Galanis Frattolin, 9, was found dead in upstate New York after her father reported her missing. Police now say they found no signs that she was kidnapped. Newc York State Police
Police in New York reported that a nine-year-old Canadian girl, Melina Frattolin, was found dead after being reported missing on Saturday night. Her father, Luciano Frattolin, contacted local authorities just before 10 p.m., saying Melina had disappeared near Exit 22 of Interstate 87 in Lake George.
He feared she may have been abducted.
Both Father and Daughter From Canada
Officials confirmed that both Melina and her father Luciano are Canadian citizens. Melina was just nine years old. Luciano is 45. They had been visiting the Lake George area when the incident happened.
The Warren County Sheriff's Office started the investigation immediately. However, officers soon noticed issues with the father's timeline and story.
Body Found 50 Kilometres Away
On Sunday, police found Melina’s body in Ticonderoga, New York. The location is about 50 kilometres east of Lake George, near the New York-Vermont border. Several local law enforcement agencies helped in the search.
The discovery came less than 24 hours after the father reported her missing.
Police Say No Sign of Abduction
New York State Police have taken over the investigation. In their statement, they said there is no sign that an abduction took place. They also confirmed there is no danger to the public at this time.
Investigators have not shared how Melina died.
No Charges Announced Yet
So far, police have not announced any arrests or charges. They plan to hold a press conference on Monday to give more details.
Luciano Frattolin’s location on Sunday night was not known. He did not reply to messages sent through LinkedIn, Instagram, or his company’s website.
Father Shares Love for Daughter Online
Luciano is known to be the founder of a Montreal-based coffee company. His website and Instagram profile show a deep love for his daughter.
His Instagram bio describes him as a “loving father.” On the company website, a post calls Melina “the light of his life.”
Public Waiting for Answers
Many questions remain unanswered. What happened between the time Melina was reported missing and when her body was found? Police are working to understand the full story.
People across Canada and the U.S. are watching the case closely. Friends, family, and the public are hoping for clarity in Monday’s press conference.
Authorities continue to investigate the case and gather more information.
