Missing Canadian Girl Found Dead in New York State; Father Detained

A tragic story unfolded in northeastern New York state as the body of a missing nine-year-old Canadian girl, Melina Frattolin, was found in Ticonderoga, New York. Authorities had been searching for Melina since Saturday night when her father reported her missing, initially suggesting an abduction. However, as the investigation progressed, police identified inconsistencies in the father’s account of the events.

The Discovery of Melina Frattolin

On Saturday night, around 10 p.m. ET, Luciano Frattolin, a Canadian resident, called authorities to report that his daughter, Melina, was missing from the area near Exit 22 of I-87 in Lake George. The initial report raised concerns of a possible abduction. Law enforcement agencies from multiple jurisdictions joined the search after authorities issued an Amber Alert early Sunday morning.

Authorities discovered Melina’s body after a thorough search in the Ticonderoga area. The Warren County Sheriff’s Office initially led the investigation before transferring it to New York State Police. While the police initially suspected an abduction, they have since clarified that there is no evidence to support that claim, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Inconsistencies in the Father’s Story

As the investigation progressed, New York State Police noticed discrepancies in Luciano Frattolin’s statements about the timeline of his daughter’s disappearance. With help from local law enforcement, including the Essex County Sheriff’s Office and New York State Forest Rangers, police were able to locate Melina’s body. It is still unclear whether charges will be filed against her father, as authorities have not released further information.

A Community in Grief

The discovery of Melina’s body has left her family and the broader community in mourning. The Police Benevolent Association of New York State, whose members helped with the search, expressed deep sorrow over the loss.

PBA President James McCartney said in a statement, “The PBA of New York State sends our deepest condolences to the family of Melina Galanis Frattolin. Our thoughts are also with our member Forest Rangers and ECOs, who are dealing with the grief of this horrific tragedy.”

Luciano Frattolin, described on the website of his company, Gambella Coffee, as a father who “spends as much time as he can in Montreal” with his daughter, has not commented publicly on the developments. The company website refers to Melina as the “light of his life” and the inspiration behind much of his work.

What Happens Next?

While the investigation continues, New York State Police have scheduled a press conference to provide further updates on the case. As of now, there is no official word on charges or additional details about what led to the tragic death of Melina Frattolin.

The case raises questions about the safety of children in such tragic situations and the complexities of investigating familial incidents. With more updates expected, the story has captured the attention of both local and international communities.

What are your thoughts on the tragic death of Melina Frattolin? Should more be done to ensure child safety in cases like this? Share your opinions below.

More…

• https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/missing-canadian-girl-found-dead-new-york-1.7589787
• https://vancouver.citynews.ca/video/2025/07/21/melina-frattolin-father-of-missing-girl-in-custody-after-remains-found-in-new-york
• https://cbs6albany.com/news/local/amber-alert-issued-for-missing-9-year-old-girl-last-seen-in-white-van-near-lake-george-melina-galanis-frattolin