A tragic incident in Imperatriz, Brazil has resulted in the deaths of a seven-year-old boy and his 13-year-old sister after consuming allegedly poisoned Easter eggs.
Jordélia Pereira Barbosa, age 35, was arrested on April 17, 2025, after she allegedly sent the tainted Easter eggs to her ex-husband’s new partner, 32-year-old Mirian Lira. The package included a note wishing Lira a happy Easter. Lira reportedly received an anonymous call soon after the package’s arrival, asking if she had received it.
Authorities reported that Lira shared the chocolates with her children, seven-year-old Luis and 13-year-old Evelyn, on April 15. Luis became ill shortly after consuming the chocolate and was taken to a local hospital, where he died the following day. Evelyn died on April 21 at Imperatriz Municipal Hospital, with the hospital stating her death was due to vascular shock from multiple organ failure.
The Maranhão Civil Police indicated that Barbosa attempted to disguise herself while purchasing the chocolates. “There are several indications that point to this woman being the perpetrator of the crime,” said Maurício Martins, a security official in Brazil.
Barbosa was apprehended while on a bus heading to her hometown of Santa Inês. Evidence found included receipts for the chocolate, two wigs, scissors, cards, a saw knife, and various unidentified substances.
Security camera footage allegedly shows Barbosa in a black wig buying the Easter eggs at a supermarket. Although she admitted to purchasing the chocolates, she denies any involvement in poisoning them. The remaining chocolates are being tested in a laboratory, and victim blood samples are being analyzed to determine the specific poison.
Reports suggest this was not Barbosa’s first attempt to harm Lira. Imperatriz Online noted a previous attempt to poison Lira during a chocolate-tasting session at her workplace.
Police revealed that Barbosa’s former husband, Rafael Silva, provided information that led to her being suspected. The alleged motive behind the poisoning is believed to be revenge and jealousy.
The incident has deeply affected the Imperatriz, Maranhão community, with neighbors remembering Luis as a cheerful child who often played in the neighborhood.
The investigation continues as forensic experts work to establish a definitive link between the chocolates and the poisoning. Authorities are also gathering further witness statements and analyzing cell phone records for additional evidence.
If found guilty, Barbosa could face severe legal consequences in Brazil for premeditated murder and attempted murder. Legal experts highlight that the planning and targeting of children could be considered aggravating circumstances in this case. Miriam Lira also consumed the poisoned chocolates but responded to treatment and survived.
This case is not isolated, as another poisoning incident occurred in December involving a woman allegedly baking a Christmas cake with arsenic, resulting in two deaths and three hospitalizations.
The Maranhão Civil Police continue their investigation, aiming to compile a comprehensive case against Barbosa.