The body of a missing nine-year-old Canadian girl has been found in northeastern New York state, according to New York State Police.
The child, identified as Melina Frattolin, was reported missing just before 10 p.m. on Saturday near Exit 22 of Interstate 87 in Lake George. Her father, 45-year-old Luciano Frattolin, had contacted the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, initially suggesting a possible abduction.
However, as the investigation progressed, officers identified inconsistencies in the father’s account and the timeline surrounding the girl’s disappearance. Working with several local police departments, authorities later located Melina’s body in Ticonderoga, approximately 50 kilometres northeast of Lake George near the New York-Vermont border.
The case has now been transferred to New York State Police. Investigators say there is currently no indication that an abduction took place, nor is there any threat to the public.
As of now, no charges have been announced. A press conference is scheduled for Monday, where police are expected to provide further details on the case.
This tragic discovery has raised serious concerns, and the investigation remains active.