Autopsy confirms torture and brain trauma in death of 3-year-old boy

A medical examiner's report has confirmed that 3-year-old Davi Lucas Santos Maia died from traumatic brain injury. The autopsy also revealed iron burns and various lesions across the child's body, including his back, legs, and buttocks.

The child died on Tuesday in Porto Acre after being taken to a hospital by his mother, 18-year-old Ana Clara dos Santos, and his stepfather, 23-year-old Tácio Gomes dos Santos. While the couple initially claimed the child had fallen down a staircase, police investigators noted that the physical injuries were inconsistent with such an accident.

Civil Police Delegate Carlos Bayma stated that the investigation is proceeding under the hypothesis of qualified homicide involving physical aggression and possible torture. Following a custody hearing, the mother and stepfather remain in preventive detention.