Father Charged with Murder After 9-Year-Old Melina Frattolin Found Dead in New York Pond

New details surrounding the death of 9-year-old Melina Frattolin have emerged—revealing surveillance footage, a chilling discovery location, and a final phone call—culminating in second-degree murder charges against her father, Luciano Frattolin.

Authorities in New York have charged 45-year-old Luciano Frattolin with second-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse following the tragic discovery of his daughter’s body. Melina was reported missing on July 19 and found the next day submerged in a shallow pond in Ticonderoga, New York.

Frattolin, who is originally from Montreal, Canada, entered a not guilty plea during his arraignment at Ticonderoga Town Court on July 21, 2025. He is currently being held at the Essex County Jail pending a felony hearing scheduled for Friday, July 25.

Melina’s Disappearance and Father’s Initial Story

Luciano initially reported his daughter missing near Exit 22 on the Northway in Lake George, NY. He told the Warren County Sheriff’s Office that Melina had vanished while he briefly stepped into a wooded area to relieve himself. His first version suggested a possible abduction, later evolving into a claim that two unidentified men forced her into a van.

An AMBER Alert was issued early Sunday, stating the child had last been seen in a white van traveling southbound. But inconsistencies in Luciano’s account triggered suspicion early on.

Heartbreaking Discovery and Autopsy Findings

On July 20, around 1:50 p.m., police found Melina’s body hidden under a log in a shallow area of a Ticonderoga pond. The area had been under active search by multiple law enforcement agencies including K9 and aviation units.

Preliminary autopsy results conducted by Dr. Michael Sikirica at Glens Falls Hospital confirmed the cause of death as asphyxia due to drowning. The manner of death has been ruled a homicide. A full report is pending further lab analysis.

Surveillance Footage and Final Phone Call

Video captured Melina and her father at a restaurant in Saratoga Springs around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday. Roughly an hour later, she called her mother and told her they were headed back to Canada. Police confirmed that during the call, Melina appeared healthy and calm—making the subsequent events all the more devastating.

A Family Vacation Ends in Tragedy

Luciano and Melina had entered the U.S. legally on July 11 for a summer vacation. The trip was supposed to end July 20, the same day Melina was to be returned to her mother’s full-time custody. Her parents had reportedly been estranged since 2019.

Authorities now believe that sometime between Melina’s final call and the 911 report, Luciano murdered his daughter and attempted to fabricate an abduction story. Investigators have stated that no evidence supports his initial claims of kidnapping or a white van fleeing the scene.

Public Reaction and Outpouring of Grief

News of Melina’s death has triggered an emotional response across social media. Heartbroken users expressed sorrow, disbelief, and a fierce call for justice. Many questioned the inconsistencies in Luciano’s narrative from the beginning, while others mourned the loss of an innocent life.

“My heart as a mom truly breaks. RIP sweet angel,” one user shared. Another wrote, “Please stop killing these beautiful children. Rest in peace, sweet Angel.”

Search Teams and Law Enforcement Response

The New York State Forest Rangers, assisted by local police departments and environmental conservation officers, conducted an extensive search. According to the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) of New York State, it was one of their members who ultimately located Melina’s body during a grid search.

“Our PBA-member Rangers and ECOs are deeply affected by this tragedy,” said PBA President James McCartney. “Our hearts go out to Melina’s family.”

Who Is Luciano Frattolin?

Publicly known as the founder of Gambella Coffee, Frattolin is an entrepreneur with a background in cross-cultural business development. He has described his daughter Melina as his inspiration, often referencing her in social media posts as the reason behind his company’s mission and values.

He previously shared about raising her with a strong sense of identity and a love for global diversity. Those close to him, according to past public statements, described him as a dedicated father—an image now shattered by the horrific allegations he faces.

Ongoing Investigation

With no prior criminal record or reported history of domestic violence, the motive behind this alleged crime remains unclear. The investigation is ongoing, with state police reviewing additional evidence and awaiting the final autopsy report.

Officials continue to urge anyone with information to come forward.

Though no threat to the public remains, the community — and Melina’s loved ones — are left with anguish, disbelief, and an overwhelming desire for justice.