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Melina Frattolin: 5 key facts on 9-year-old found dead in Ticonderoga - from parents to Canada link
An Amber Alert was issued in New York on Saturday after Melina Galanis Frattolin, a 9-year-old girl, went missing
An Amber Alert was issued in New York on Saturday after Melina Galanis Frattolin, a 9-year-old girl, went missing, the state police confirmed. A day later, police confirmed that she was found dead in Ticonderoga. The alert, triggered by a report of a possible abduction near Lake George, was canceled.
5 key facts about Melina Frattolin
The Initial Abduction Report
The ordeal began at approximately 9:58 PM on July 19, when Warren County 911 received a call from Luciano Frattolin, 45, reporting his daughter Melina missing, suggesting a possible abduction near Exit 22 of I-87 in Lake George.
An Amber Alert was issued early on July 20, describing Melina as 5 feet tall, 100 pounds, with brown hair, last seen in a white van wearing a black-and-white striped shirt, light-colored shorts, and white Adidas sneakers.
Read More: Melina Frattolin was not abducted; police question father's account after Ticonderoga discovery
Inconsistencies in the Father’s Story
As the Warren County Sheriff’s Office initially led the investigation, law enforcement identified discrepancies in Luciano’s timeline and account of events. This raised doubts about the abduction claim, a critical pivot that led authorities to question the circumstances surrounding Melina’s disappearance.
Discovery of Melina’s Body
With support from the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, Ticonderoga Police Department, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, State Forest Rangers, and New York State Police K9 and Aviation units, Melina’s body was located deceased in Ticonderoga on Sunday. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Parental Context and Canada Link
Melina and Luciano, both residents of Canada, were in the US when the incident occurred, hinting at a cross-border element. Luciano is identified as the caller.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety
Due to jurisdictional issues, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office handed the case to the New York State Police, who now lead the probe. Authorities said that there’s no indication of an abduction or threat to the public. A media event is scheduled for Monday.
