TRIGGER WARNING: You could find some of this content distressing.
A shocking case out of Brazil has left the nation reeling after a three-year-old girl, Isabelly de Oliveira Assumpção, tragically drowned in washing machine. Her stepmother, 27-year-old Suzana Dazar dos Santos, has now been formally charged with intentional homicide, with prosecutors alleging she lured the toddler into the machine using toys before leaving her unsupervised to drown.
Toddler drowns in washing machine – accident or premeditated?
The incident occurred on May 7, 2022, in Cascavel, Paraná, just a day before Mother’s Day. The prosecution claims that her mother strategically placed toys inside a top-loading washing machine filled with water, knowing Isabelly would be tempted to climb inside. A small plastic stool was reportedly placed in front of the machine, allowing the child to access it with ease. Authorities allege that Santos then walked away, leaving Isabelly in what they argue was an intentional act of homicide.
Prosecution Alleges Jealousy as a Motive
Investigators believe jealousy played a significant role in the alleged crime. Prosecutors suggest that Santos saw Isabelly as an obstacle to her relationship with the child’s father, Alex dos Santos Assumpção. According to court documents, Santos reportedly resented Isabelly’s bond with both her father and biological mother. “She viewed the child as a barrier to fully establishing herself in her partner’s life,” the prosecution stated.
Further adding to the allegations, sources close to the investigation claim that Santos had expressed frustration about Isabelly’s presence in the home. Some reports suggest that Santos had made previous complaints about the child, further fuelling suspicions that the drowning was not accidental.
Defense Claims Tragic Accident
Despite the damning allegations, Santos’s defense team insists that Isabelly’s death was nothing more than a tragic accident. Defense attorney Paulo Hara Júnior argues that there is no concrete evidence proving that Santos had murderous intent.
“She had a good relationship with Isabelly. There is no history of violence or mistreatment,” “The accusations against my client are speculative, and we will prove her innocence in court.”
Santos, who was initially arrested but later released while awaiting trial, has maintained that she had no involvement in her stepdaughter’s death beyond negligence. She has yet to make a public statement regarding the charges.
Father and Biological Mother Seek Justice
Isabelly’s parents, Alex dos Santos Assumpção and her biological mother, have spoken out about their devastating loss, calling for justice.
“Nothing will repair the loss, having lost her, but justice will calm our hearts a little,” said Isabelly’s father in an emotional statement. He also shared how deeply loved Isabelly was and the immeasurable pain of losing her under such horrific circumstances.
The child’s biological mother, whose name has not been publicly released, has also reportedly been vocal about her belief that Santos should be held accountable. “She was my baby, my everything. I need to see justice done,” she said, according to local media outlets.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Authorities have been gathering evidence since the initial discovery of Isabelly’s body. Autopsy reports confirmed that the cause of death was drowning. Investigators have also examined Santos’s previous behavior, looking for patterns that might suggest neglect or intentional harm.
The prosecution has presented its case to the court, and Santos has been given until January 31 to respond to the charges. Depending on the judicial review, the case could proceed to trial by jury.
Community Reaction and Impact
The case has sparked outrage in Brazil and beyond, with many horrified by the details of Isabelly’s death. Social media has been flooded with messages of support for Isabelly’s family, with hashtags like #JusticeForIsabelly trending.
Many in the legal community have weighed in on the case, with some arguing that the prosecution must provide irrefutable evidence to convict Santos beyond a reasonable doubt. Others believe the circumstantial evidence is strong enough to justify the murder charge.
One child advocacy group in Brazil has called for stronger child protection measures in blended families. “We need to ensure that children living with step-parents are safe and not vulnerable to abuse,” a representative from the organization stated.
Looking Ahead
As the legal proceedings unfold, the world will be watching to see whether Suzana Dazar dos Santos is convicted of murder or if the case will be ruled an unfortunate accident. For Isabelly’s grieving parents, no verdict can bring back their beloved daughter, but they hope that justice will be served in her name.
With the trial looming, this case serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the vulnerabilities of young children and the tragic consequences that can unfold when they are placed in harm’s way.
RIP Precious girl
