Porto Alegre police investigate death of 4-year-old girl

Police in Porto Alegre are investigating the death of a 4-year-old girl who was brought to the Bom Jesus Urgent Care Unit (UPA) without signs of life in the early hours of January 17. The child exhibited visible injuries on her head, legs, and buttocks. Medical professionals reported suspicions of sexual violence based on the characteristics of the lesions.

The girl's aunt, who had been caring for her since July, provided testimony to the Civil Police. She reported that upon returning from work, she discovered the child with bruises and subsequently had a discussion with her partner regarding the injuries. The aunt stated that her partner admitted to hitting the child on the day of her death.

Detective Alice Fernandes noted that while the partner fled the medical unit upon the arrival of a police vehicle, he is currently considered a witness rather than a fugitive, as no arrest warrant has been issued. Investigators are awaiting forensic reports to determine the exact cause of death and whether the physical aggression was the direct cause of the child's passing.