A tragic incident in Imperatriz, Brazil, has led to the deaths of a seven-year-old boy and his 13-year-old sister after they consumed allegedly poisoned Easter eggs.
Jordélia Pereira Barbosa, 35, was arrested on April 17, 2025, after allegedly sending the tainted chocolates to her ex-husband’s partner, Mirian Lira, aged 32. The package, accompanied by a note wishing Lira a happy Easter, was followed by an anonymous call to confirm its receipt.
According to investigators, Lira shared the chocolates with her children, seven-year-old Luis Silva and 13-year-old Evelyn Fernanda, on April 15. Luis became ill immediately after eating the chocolate and was taken to a hospital, where he died the following day. Evelyn passed away on April 21 at Imperatriz Municipal Hospital, with the cause of death attributed to vascular shock and multiple organ failure.
The Maranhão Civil Police revealed that Barbosa tried to conceal her identity when purchasing the chocolates. “There are several indications that point to this woman being the perpetrator of the crime,” stated Maurício Martins, a security official in Brazil.
Barbosa was apprehended on a bus en route to her hometown of Santa Inês. Evidence found included receipts for the chocolates, two wigs, scissors, cards, a saw knife, and various unidentified substances.
Security camera footage purportedly shows Barbosa wearing a black wig while purchasing the Easter eggs at a local supermarket. Although she admitted to buying the chocolates, Barbosa denies any poisoning. The remaining chocolates are undergoing laboratory tests, and blood samples from the victims are being analyzed to determine the poison used.
Previous attempts to harm Lira have been reported, including an incident during a chocolate-tasting session at Lira’s workplace, according to Imperatriz Online.
Police noted that Barbosa’s former husband provided information leading to her being suspected. They believe revenge and jealousy motivated the alleged actions.
The local community in Imperatriz, Maranhão, has been affected by the incident. Neighbors remember Luis as a cheerful child who was frequently seen playing in the neighborhood.
The investigation is ongoing, with forensic experts working to establish a link between the chocolates and the poisoning. Authorities are gathering additional witness statements and examining cell phone records for further evidence.
If convicted, Barbosa could face severe penalties under Brazilian law for premeditated murder and attempted murder. Legal experts note the planning and targeting of children could be considered aggravating factors. Miriam Lira, who also ingested the chocolate, survived after receiving treatment.
This case follows another poisoning incident in Brazil last December, where a woman allegedly used arsenic in a Christmas cake, resulting in two deaths and three hospitalizations.
The poisoned Easter eggs case remains under investigation by the Maranhão Civil Police as they build a case against Barbosa.
