Aunt and Uncle Arrested for Aggravated Homicide of 4-Year-Old Niece in Tufino
Naples, February 1, 2026 – The aunt and uncle of a 4-year-old girl who died in Tufino (Naples) on the night of December 13-14, 2024, have been arrested on charges of aggravated homicide. The couple, who had been temporarily entrusted with the child by social services after her natural parents’ parental rights were suspended, were initially investigated for mistreatment and negligent homicide. The initial explanation for the child’s death was a fall down the stairs, but the subsequent investigation revealed a disturbing pattern of neglect and violence.
The Investigation Uncovers Neglect and Violence
The Carabinieri of the Nola Company, with the involvement of the RIS (Scientific Investigations Department) of Rome, conducted the investigation, which brought to light a substantial state of abandonment of the child, characterized as “child neglect,” as well as violent conduct. The child was suffering from severe malnutrition, which, according to the Nola Public Prosecutor’s Office, led to a profound physical deterioration, culminating in a cachectic state that caused her death. This was exacerbated by other concurrent traumas, including severe burns, bedsores, and a fracture, which contributed to the onset of a serious pulmonary pathology.
The preliminary findings indicated that the couple had subjected the child to mistreatment, including actions consistent with child neglect, resulting in severe malnutrition. In addition, violent acts were confirmed, which, combined with her state of denutrition, led to a physical decline and ultimately to a severe state of emaciation, leading to her death. The mistreatment also caused other injuries, such as severe burns, bedsores, and a fracture.
Arrest and Ongoing Proceedings
An arrest warrant for precautionary custody in prison was issued against the aunt and uncle, who are now under investigation for aggravated homicide, by the Carabinieri of the Nola Company. The investigation, led by the Nola Public Prosecutor’s Office and carried out by the Operational Section of the Nola Carabinieri Company and the Tufino Station, utilized specific evidence collected during forensic examinations conducted by specialized personnel from the Investigative Unit of the Carabinieri of Castello di Cisterna and the Scientific Investigations Department of the Carabinieri of Rome – Biology Section.
Crucial to the investigation were a collegiate medical-legal consultation, an IT consultation, and the acquisition of documentary evidence. The exchange of messages between the suspects and other individuals, the evaluation of statements made during the proceedings, and scientific data from the autopsy and forensic examinations also played a decisive role.
Community Impact and Previous Reports
The tragic death of the 4-year-old girl has deeply shaken the community of Tufino. The case highlights the critical importance of monitoring children entrusted to foster families and the need for robust support systems for both children and caregivers. While the specific details of the social services’ involvement are not yet fully public, the incident raises questions about the oversight mechanisms in place.
This case follows other recent incidents of child abuse and neglect that have garnered public attention, emphasizing the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable children. The authorities continue to investigate all aspects of the case to ensure justice for the young victim.
The community awaits further developments as the legal proceedings unfold, hoping for a thorough accounting of the events that led to this tragic loss of life.
Source: https://tg24.sky.it/cronaca/2026/02/01/napoli-bambina-morta-violenza-denutrizione-arresti
