9-Year-Old Canadian Girl Found Deceased in New York; father’s Account Under Scrutiny

Ticonderoga, NY – Authorities are investigating the death of a 9-year-old Canadian girl, Melina Frattolin, whose body was discovered Sunday in upstate New York. Her father, Luciano Frattolin, initially reported her missing late Saturday evening near Lake George, but police have cited “inconsistencies” in his account of the events.

Melina Frattolin and her father are both residents of Canada. The discovery of her body occurred during an extensive search operation in Ticonderoga, a town situated approximately 30 miles east of Lake George and near the Vermont border. the search involved K9 units and aviation support, according to new York State Police.

While no charges have been announced,state police indicated that law enforcement identified discrepancies in the timeline and details provided by the father. “At this time, there is no indication that an abduction occurred, and there is no threat to the public,” a police statement confirmed, without further elaboration.

Luciano Frattolin,45,has previously described himself as a “loving father” on social media,with a coffee company website noting Melina as “the light of his life” and the inspiration behind his endeavors.

A news conference is scheduled for Monday, where further details are expected to be released. The whereabouts of Luciano Frattolin were not instantly clear late Sunday.