A tragic incident in Imperatriz, Brazil, resulted in the deaths of a seven-year-old boy and his 13-year-old sister after they consumed Easter eggs that were allegedly poisoned.
Jordélia Pereira Barbosa, 35, was arrested on April 17, 2025, following accusations that she sent tainted chocolate Easter eggs to Mirian Lira, her ex-husband’s new partner. The package was accompanied by a note wishing Lira a happy Easter. Shortly after the package was delivered, Lira received an anonymous phone call confirming 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 hospitalized, where he died the following day. Evelyn succumbed to her illness on April 21 at Imperatriz Municipal Hospital, with hospital officials citing vascular shock resulting from multiple organ failure as the cause of death.
The Maranhão Civil Police reported 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,” stated Maurício Martins, a security official in Brazil.
Barbosa was apprehended on a bus heading to her hometown, Santa Inês. Authorities discovered evidence linking her to the crime, including receipts for the chocolate, wigs, scissors, cards, a saw knife, and various unidentified substances.
Security camera footage allegedly shows Barbosa in a black wig purchasing the Easter eggs at a supermarket. Although she admitted to buying the chocolates, she denies any involvement in poisoning them. Laboratory tests are being conducted on the remaining eggs, while blood samples from the victims are analyzed to determine the poison used.
Reports suggest that this was not Barbosa’s first attempt to harm Lira. Imperatriz Online mentioned a previous incident where she allegedly tried to poison Lira during a chocolate-tasting session at the supermarket where Lira worked.
The police stated that Barbosa’s ex-husband, Rafael Silva, provided critical information leading to her arrest. Authorities suspect that the alleged poisoning was motivated by revenge and jealousy.
The Imperatriz, Maranhão, community is deeply affected by this incident. Neighbors recall Luis as a cheerful child often seen playing in the area.
The investigation continues as forensic experts work to establish a definitive connection between the Easter eggs and the poisoning. Authorities are gathering additional witness statements and examining cell phone records for further evidence.
If found guilty, Barbosa could face severe penalties under Brazilian law for premeditated murder and attempted murder. Legal experts highlight that the targeting of children could be seen as an aggravating factor. Mirian Lira also consumed the poisoned “gift” but has recovered after receiving medical treatment.
This case is reminiscent of a previous incident in Brazil, where a woman was accused of baking a Christmas cake with arsenic, resulting in two deaths and three hospitalizations.
The Maranhão Civil Police continues investigating the poisoned Easter eggs case, building a case against Barbosa.
