Transgender Teen Strangled During Ride-Hailing Trip in Bahia, Driver Confesses and Is Released Pending Investigation

Overview

• The victim, identified as Ryana, 18, died after a chokehold known as a 'mata-leão' during a trip in Luís Eduardo Magalhães in western Bahia.
• A 19-year-old ride-hailing driver presented himself to police, confessed to applying the chokehold, and was released after authorities cited his voluntary surrender.
• The suspect claims he acted in self-defense following an argument and an alleged movement by the victim to reach for an object in her bag.
• He told investigators he had hired Ryana for sex work and was driving her home when the dispute occurred, details authorities reported from his statement.
• Emergency responders were called to the police station after the driver sought help with the victim in his car, but she was pronounced dead as the Civil Police and the state prosecutor’s office continue the case.