Prosecutors announced Friday that the partner of 48‑year‑old Brazilian national Sueli Leal Barbosa has been formally arrested and charged with homicide and arson. The fire broke out at their fourth‑floor apartment on Viale Abruzzi 64 in Milan late Wednesday.
The man, identified as 45‑year‑old Brazilian Michael Pereira, is accused of deliberately setting the blaze that forced the victim into a fatal jump from the window. Prosecutors note the apartment door had been locked from the outside.
In the arrest warrant, officials highlighted Pereira’s apparent lack of remorse. Investigators say he “did not show any form of grief, never mind remorse” during questioning. They also allege he altered his story multiple times, including the time he claims to have left the apartment, and whether he argued with Sueli. He also made false claims attributing the fire to the boiler, which was later found to be in perfect working order. Hence the warrant for homicide and arson.
From accident to crime
Initial enquiries by firefighters and police suggested the blaze could be accidental. However, the locked door and Pereira’s inconsistencies have pivoted the case toward criminal intent.
The apartment building was evacuated overnight on Wednesday; although most residents have since returned, with 12 flats remain unsafe pending inspections.
Two other people were treated for minor injuries.
Neighbours described hearing screams before seeing the fire: “I was awakened by the piercing screams of that poor woman. It was shocking,” said one resident in an ANSA interview.
“I saw the flames and the lady clearly; I’m in shock,” she added.
Another neighbour, whose flat is directly above the fire-damaged unit, reflected: “It was a nightmare night. I saw everything red … We ran away,” she said.
This is yet another case of femicide in Italy, albeit by a foreign national in this instance.
