By Nana Owusu Achiaw
Subtitle:
Amber Alert turns tragic as police discover child’s body in remote New York pond; father accused of murder and cover-up
A Canadian man, Luciano Frattolin, has been charged with second-degree murder and concealment of a corpse after allegedly killing his 9-year-old daughter, Melina Galanis Frattolin, during a vacation in upstate New York.
Authorities say Frattolin initially reported that Melina had been kidnapped by two strangers after he stopped along a wooded area near Ticonderoga. His claim triggered an Amber Alert and a large-scale, multi-agency search.
However, police later uncovered inconsistencies in his story. By Sunday, Frattolin was identified as the prime suspect, and Melina’s body was found submerged in a shallow pond not far from Lake George.
According to investigators, the father and daughter were returning to Montreal after a 10-day trip across New York and Connecticut. Melina last contacted her mother Saturday evening to say they were on their way home. Hours later, authorities believe she was killed and her body discarded in a remote location.
Despite having no prior criminal record or known history of domestic violence, Frattolin’s sudden behavior and false report led to his arrest in Essex County. He remains in custody as authorities continue to probe the motive behind the killing.
Melina’s parents had been separated since 2019, but her mother had no prior concerns about the trip.
“This is a heartbreaking case,” said Capt. Robert McConnell of the New York State Police. “We are doing everything possible to ensure justice is served for Melina and her family.”
An autopsy is underway to determine the exact cause of death. Investigations remain active.
