Bahia Probes Killing of Trans Teen as Suspect Remains Free After Confession

Overview

• Rhianna Alves, 18, died by strangulation after a reported dispute during a car trip between Barreiras and Luís Eduardo Magalhães, according to initial police findings.
• Sérgio Henrique Lima dos Santos, a 19-year-old app driver, told police he hired Rhianna for sex, claimed she threatened to expose him, and said he used a 'mata-leão' chokehold after she reached toward a bag.
• He drove the body to the Luís Eduardo Magalhães police station, confessed and was released to answer the case out of custody based on his self-presentation and confession, authorities said.
• The Civil Police are investigating the death as feminicide, with forensic guides issued and witness interviews underway, as Bahia’s justice secretariat, the state prosecutor’s office and the OAB diversity commission monitor the inquiry.
• Rhianna was buried on December 9 in América Dourada, her family denounced the suspect’s release, and relatives organized an online fundraiser to cover funeral expenses.