A woman, known as a ‘beauty teacher,’ aged 62, was taken into custody for allegedly stabbing and burying her 21-year-old boyfriend in her garden. The body of the victim, Alex Sandro da Silva Rocha, was found in Bebedouro, Sao Paulo, Brazil, last week with a fatal stab wound in the chest. Jussara Luzia Fernandes confessed to the crime, according to Brazilian media reports.
Earlier in January, Fernandes became a widow after her husband was found deceased in their swimming pool in what was deemed an accidental death. Following her admission, the Civil Police has initiated an investigation into the recent incident.
During a search of the residence last week, authorities interrogated Fernandes, who initially denied any involvement. However, police observed a freshly dug hole in the backyard near the house, prompting them to summon the Fire Department, which led to the discovery of the body despite Fernandes claiming she had buried her dog there.
After her arrest, Fernandes admitted to a heated argument with her boyfriend that escalated, leading her to grab scissors in self-defense and fatally wound him. Allegedly, she also enlisted help to bury the body.
Detective Joao Vitor Silverio disclosed that Fernandes involved her son in moving the body out of the house. Following these developments, Fernandes faces charges of homicide and concealing a corpse and is currently detained.
The victim’s mother, Ivonete Ribeiro da Silva, has spoken out about her son’s abusive relationship, mentioning that he was attempting to leave Fernandes, whom she described as controlling, jealous, and possessive. Da Silva expressed hope for justice in the case.
Da Silva further accused Fernandes of pretending to be her son during phone conversations after the incident. She highlighted incidents of control and aggression, emphasizing her son’s desire to break free from the relationship.
For confidential assistance, individuals can contact the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Freephone Helpline at 0808 2000 247 or visit womensaid.co.uk. AAFDA (Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse) offers specialized support and advocacy to families affected by fatal domestic abuse.