Dad of Quebec girl found dead in New York state is in police custody

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A nine-year-old girl from Quebec who was reported missing in Lake George, New York, has been found dead and her father, Luciano Frattolin, is being held at the Essex County Jail, according to reports.

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Melina Frattolin was reported missing at approximately 9:58 p.m. on July 19. Her father, 45, had told authorities that she had disappeared near Exit 22 of Interstate 87, close to the popular tourist destination in upstate New York.

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Initially treated as a possible abduction, the case prompted a search involving several agencies, including the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Essex County Sheriff’s Office, Ticonderoga Police Department and New York State Police canine and aviation units.

As the investigation progressed, police said they identified “inconsistencies” in the father’s account of events and the timeline he provided. The case was then turned over to the New York State Police.

In a statement issued Sunday, police said Melina’s body was located in Ticonderoga, approximately an hour northeast of where she was reported missing.

“There is no indication that an abduction occurred, and no threat to the public,” the statement read.

A press conference is expected Monday.

According to Quebec’s business registry, Luciano Frattolin is the owner of Gambella Coffee, based in downtown Montreal.

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