A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the community of Ticonderoga, New York, after the body of 9-year-old Melina Frattolin was discovered in a shallow pond on July 20, 2025—just one day after she was reported missing. Her father, 45-year-old Luciano Frattolin, a Montreal resident and founder of Gambella Coffee, has been charged with second-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse.
Initially, Luciano told police that Melina vanished while he stepped briefly into the woods near Lake George. Later, he changed his story, claiming she had been abducted by two men in a white van, which triggered an AMBER Alert. However, inconsistencies in his account quickly raised red flags for investigators.
Melina’s body was found beneath a log during a widespread search involving K9 units and aviation support. An early autopsy confirmed she died from asphyxia due to drowning, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide. Her sudden and tragic death has left the public stunned and seeking answers.
Surveillance footage showed Melina and Luciano dining together in Saratoga Springs the night before she disappeared. Later that evening, Melina called her mother in Canada, calmly stating they were heading home. Investigators believe she was killed sometime between that call and Luciano’s 911 report the next day. There is no evidence supporting his claims of an abduction.
The father-daughter U.S. trip began on July 11 as a summer vacation, with plans for Melina to return to her mother’s custody on July 20. Her parents have reportedly been estranged since 2019, and the motive for the killing remains unclear. Luciano had no prior criminal record and was known for publicly praising Melina as his greatest inspiration.
Melina’s death has sparked widespread sorrow and outrage. Social media has been flooded with messages of grief and demands for justice. “Please stop killing these beautiful children,” one user wrote. Meanwhile, Luciano remains in custody as he awaits a felony hearing, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to come forward.
