Brazilian Model Found Dead in Paris Apartment

Overview

• The body of 39-year-old Rafael Pereira Modesto was found in his Paris apartment after firefighters forced entry, following a friend’s welfare check on Saturday.
• Family members say they have not received an official cause of death or confirmation about signs of violence from French authorities as of the latest reports.
• Relatives have raised about R$9,000 so far by donations and have tasked a sister-in-law in France with liaising with the Brazilian consulate to obtain required paperwork for transport.
• The Brazilian Foreign Ministry’s guidance cited in coverage notes the federal government does not cover embalming, cremation, international transport of remains, or burial abroad, so families must pay or seek outside support.
• Rafael left Uberlândia at 18, built a career as a model and stylist in Europe, and his family says they want him returned for a wake and burial once consular and French documents are issued and funds are secured.