ESSEX COUNTY, NY — A small town is grappling with horror, grief, and betrayal after 9-year-old Melina Galanis Frattolin was found dead in Ticonderoga on Sunday — a tragic end to a missing child case that has taken a chilling and unexpected turn. Her father, Luciano Frattolin, was booked into the Essex County Jail at 2:08 a.m. today, accused of fabricating her abduction and now at the center of an ongoing criminal investigation.
What began as a desperate manhunt and Amber Alert over the weekend quickly unraveled into something far more devastating. Frattolin initially told law enforcement that Melina had been abducted by a man in a white van near Lake George. His plea triggered an immediate multi-agency search across state lines.
But the narrative crumbled just hours later when Melina’s lifeless body was discovered — not abducted, but left behind under suspicious and heartbreaking circumstances. Investigators soon found evidence contradicting Frattolin’s story. Inconsistencies in his timeline and statements led law enforcement to determine the kidnapping report was entirely false.
This morning, Frattolin was formally taken into custody and now faces charges of filing a false report, with further charges pending as investigators work to uncover the truth behind his daughter’s death. Authorities have confirmed no other suspects are currently being pursued.
Shock and Sorrow in a Tight-Knit Community
Melina’s death has sent shockwaves through both sides of the U.S.-Canada border, devastating friends, neighbors, and schoolmates. Described as bright, energetic, and endlessly kind, Melina was known for her laughter, her love of reading, and the joy she brought into every room.
“She was sunshine,” one teacher shared. “Pure sunshine. None of us can understand how something like this could happen.”
For many, the grief has been compounded by the disturbing nature of the case. The revelation that Melina’s father may have misled authorities in the wake of her death has left a community reeling — struggling not only with loss but with the sense of betrayal by someone meant to love and protect her.
Investigators Continue to Seek Truth
The New York State Police, Warren County Sheriff’s Office, and Essex County authorities remain fully engaged in the investigation. While the precise cause of Melina’s death has not yet been made public, an autopsy is underway. Forensic evidence and digital data are being examined to reconstruct her final hours.
Officials have not ruled out additional charges against Frattolin as they await further findings.
Vigils, Tributes, and a Plea for Justice
As families in Ticonderoga prepare to gather for candlelight vigils in Melina’s memory, the air is heavy with sadness and a deep longing for answers. Community members are rallying around Melina’s extended family, offering support and prayers as they navigate unimaginable grief.
Local clergy, crisis counselors, and school officials are also stepping in to help children and families process the devastating news.
“This is every parent’s nightmare — made worse by the realization that the truth was hidden from us,” said one resident at a growing memorial outside Melina’s school. “She deserved love, protection, and a future.”
Moving Toward Accountability and Healing
As legal proceedings against Luciano Frattolin begin, the community’s attention is now focused on honoring Melina’s life and ensuring that her death is not in vain. Her memory is already prompting calls for increased child welfare vigilance, support services for grieving families, and a renewed focus on the safety of vulnerable children.
Melina Galanis Frattolin was a child full of light, joy, and promise. Her death has left an indelible scar — not just on those who knew her, but on an entire region left in mourning.
Rest in peace, Melina. You were loved. You will be remembered. And justice will speak for you.
