TICONDEROGA, N.Y. — The heartbreaking case of 9-year-old Melina Galanis Frattolin has taken a grim turn, as officials confirmed her cause of death to be asphyxia due to drowning. The death has been officially ruled a homicide following a preliminary autopsy.
Dr. Michael Sikirica conducted the autopsy and stated that while final lab results are still pending, initial findings clearly indicate Melina’s death was not accidental.
Timeline of Events
- July 11: Melina and her father, Luciano Frattolin, traveled from Montreal to New York and Connecticut for a vacation.
- July 19, ~5:30 p.m.: The father and daughter were last seen together on surveillance footage in Saratoga Springs. Melina also spoke to her mother that evening in what seemed like a normal conversation.
- July 19, ~9:58 p.m.: Luciano called 911 claiming his daughter had been kidnapped by two men in a white van. That story was later debunked.
- July 20: Melina’s body was discovered submerged beneath a log in a shallow pond near Route 74 in Ticonderoga.
The Father Under Suspicion
Luciano Frattolin, 45, has been charged with second-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse. Authorities have ruled out the initial abduction story and cited significant inconsistencies in his statements.
He has pleaded not guilty and is currently in custody. He does not have a prior history of violent crimes.
Ongoing Investigation & Public Appeal
Investigators are requesting any dashcam or surveillance footage of a gray 2024 Toyota Prius traveling on I‑87 between Exits 28 and 20 on the evening of July 19. This vehicle was being driven by Luciano with Melina as a passenger and may hold key clues to the timeline.
Anyone with information is urged to contact law enforcement at 518‑873‑2750 or email crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.
Community in Mourning
The small town of Ticonderoga is reeling from the tragedy. Residents gathered for a candlelight vigil to remember Melina’s life. Community members expressed sorrow and disbelief, saying the event has shaken their sense of safety and peace.
What’s Next
- Final lab results from the autopsy are expected soon.
- Luciano Frattolin is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on Friday, July 25.
- Investigators continue piecing together the final hours of Melina’s life, with the public’s help seen as critical in strengthening the case.
In Summary
Melina Frattolin’s death has been confirmed as a homicide caused by drowning. Her father, now in custody, faces murder charges. As the investigation continues, authorities urge the public to come forward with any footage or details that could help bring justice for Melina.