Phenol identified in clothing of aviation student killed in Paraná ritual

A forensic report from the Paraná Scientific Police has identified the presence of phenol in the clothing of Gustavo Henrique Lara, a 27-year-old aviation student who died in Ponta Grossa. Lara died following a traditional “oil bath” ritual, typically performed to celebrate a pilot's first solo flight.

The autopsy previously determined that Lara died of asphyxiation caused by the swelling of his airways due to chemical exposure, alongside various chemical burns. The new forensic analysis found that his garments were completely soaked in an aqueous solution of phenol, a highly toxic and corrosive substance that can be rapidly absorbed through the skin and respiratory tract.

Investigators are currently analyzing a viscous, dark brown and greenish liquid found in a seized bottle. While this liquid contained a complex mixture of phenol and petroleum derivatives, it was noted as being different from the specific substance found on the victim's clothing. Civil Police Delegate Lucas Petry stated that the investigation is now focused on determining the origin of the phenol and its exact role in the death.