Americana pastor arrested for feminicide of ex-wife

A pastor identified as Jonatã de Jesus Batista was arrested in flagrante for the feminicide of his ex-wife, Jeane Cristina Mattes Batista, in Americana, São Paulo. The crime occurred during a barbecue celebrating the 15th birthday of their eldest son at the home of the victim's former in-laws.

Despite having a protective order against him, the victim attended the event. Batista, who described himself as an “itinerant pastor” on social media, reportedly confessed to the killing, citing jealousy over her new relationship as the motive. He had previously been detained for two months following an assault on his wife earlier this year.

In posts made nine days prior to the murder, Batista had written on social media that “religious people are more dangerous than demons.” The Igreja Manjedoura de Cristo stated that Batista has not been part of their pastoral staff or any church activities since March 2024.