Florence prosecutors seek to archive Kata disappearance investigation

The Florence Public Prosecutor's Office has requested the archiving of the investigation into the disappearance of five-year-old Kataleya Mia Alvarez Chicclo, known as Kata. The Peruvian child vanished on June 10, 2023, from the former Hotel Astor, a building that was being occupied by various groups at the time.

After extensive investigations, prosecutors Christine Von Borries and Rosa Volpe stated that the evidence collected is insufficient to support a trial or to identify specific responsible parties. The investigation had previously focused on the child's maternal uncle, Abel Argenis Vasquez, and paternal uncle, Marlon Chicclo, on charges of kidnapping for extortion. However, investigators found no sufficient proof to support these accusations or other related charges.

Over the course of the inquiry, authorities explored several theories, including drug-related retaliation, conflicts within the hotel occupancy, potential abuse, and person-swapping. Despite reviewing surveillance footage that showed the child in the hotel courtyard, no evidence was found documenting her exit from the building. The request to archive the case now moves to a preliminary investigation judge for a final decision, though the file could be reopened if new evidence emerges.