Overview
- The death of Karina Villarruel was reclassified as a homicide after an autopsy concluded she died from asphyxia by external compression, following her being found dead at home.
- Investigators detained and formally charged 35-year-old Lucas Matías Nittiolli for homicide aggravated by the couple's relationship and for gender-based violence.
- Medical exams recorded scratches on Nittiolli's forearms that were matched to genetic material from Villarruel's nails, evidence the prosecutor says is consistent with a defensive struggle.
- Family members say Villarruel, who had two children and worked in the family business, experienced controlling behavior that included isolation and loss of contact with her sons.
- The UFI N°4 inquiry remains open with ongoing forensic tests and legal steps, and the victim's family is urging the court to pursue full accountability under the femicide aggravators that can carry life imprisonment.