Trial of Montreal father accused of killing nine-year-old daughter resumes today
Luciano Frattolin, charged with second-degree murder in the death of Melina Frattolin during a New York trip last summer, faces prosecution testimony wrapping up this week.
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The trial of Luciano Frattolin resumed Thursday in connection with the death of his nine-year-old daughter Melina, who lived in Montreal. Frattolin, 46, is charged with second-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse. He has pleaded not guilty to both charges and has been held without bail since his arrest in July 2025.
Melina died during a trip to New York last summer. Frattolin reported her missing, and her body was later recovered near where she disappeared.
The trial began two weeks ago, and the prosecution is expected to present its final witnesses this week. On Wednesday, an investigator testified about text messages between Frattolin and Melina's mother around the time he reported their daughter missing.
Earlier testimony included a DNA analyst who found Frattolin's DNA on shorts recovered in a garbage bag retrieved a short drive from where Melina's body was found. Surveillance video from truck cameras also placed a silver Prius — consistent with vehicles associated with Frattolin — in the area around the time Melina disappeared.
The facts
What charges does Luciano Frattolin face?
Luciano Frattolin is charged with second-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse in connection with the death of his nine-year-old daughter Melina.
When was Frattolin arrested?
Luciano Frattolin was arrested in July 2025.
Where did Melina Frattolin die?
Melina Frattolin died during a trip to New York in summer 2025.
What physical evidence connected Frattolin to the case?
A DNA analyst found Luciano Frattolin's DNA on shorts recovered in a garbage bag a short distance from where Melina's body was found. Surveillance video from truck cameras also placed a silver Prius consistent with vehicles associated with Frattolin in the area around the time she disappeared.
