Brazil is in shock following the death of influencer Ulissias Marcelli, 30, and her boyfriend Vinícius Souza de Carvalho, 28, who were found with gunshot wounds on a rural road in the district of Vera Cruz, in the state of Bahia.
The bodies were found by a local worker, who alerted authorities to what was happening. The Civil Police confirmed that both had gunshot wounds and opened an investigation to clarify the crime. Among the initial hypotheses, investigators are considering the possibility that the couple may have been kidnapped before being murdered, as well as a possible connection to drug trafficking in the region. So far, there have been no arrests and no confirmed motive.
Ulissias had managed to gather more than 20 thousand followers on Instagram, where she became known for her gothic aesthetic, elaborate costumes, and striking performances as a fire acrobat. She also described herself as a reporter, businesswoman, presenter, and motorcyclist.
The tragedy occurred just days before the influencer was set to take part as host of the Rock Gaya Festival, an event that publicly mourned her death. “It is hard to believe that someone who was about to share such a special moment with us is gone so soon”, the organizers said.
In addition to her social media career, Marcelli was the mother of a 13-year-old son. After the news became known, hundreds of followers filled her posts with farewell messages, remembering her as one of the most beloved figures in the region’s cosplay and arts scene.
The investigation continues as authorities try to determine what happened during the hours before the couple was found.