A heartbreaking incident in Brazil has shaken the nation, as a mother and her two children fell violently ill after consuming what they believed were innocent chocolate Easter eggs. Tragically, the woman’s 7-year-old son has died, while she and her 13-year-old daughter remain in critical condition. Authorities now believe the poisoning was a premeditated act of revenge by the woman’s boyfriend’s ex-wife.
The suspect, Jordélia Pereira Barbosa, 35, has been arrested and accused of sending the poisoned chocolates in a carefully orchestrated attack targeting her ex-husband’s new family.
According to reports from FDamiao Noticias and The Daily Mail, Barbosa allegedly purchased the chocolate eggs at a supermarket and laced them with a deadly substance before sending them via courier on April 16.
The eggs were addressed directly to the woman she allegedly aimed to harm, accompanied by a chilling message:
“With love, to Mirian Lira. Happy Easter.”
Surveillance footage shared by Imperiatriz Online shows Barbosa purchasing the Easter chocolates at a local store. She also allegedly bought cards, scissors, a saw knife, suspected drugs, and two wigs — all of which were later found in her possession.
Authorities also recovered a funnel and spoon, believed to have been used to inject the poison into the sweets.
Barbosa was arrested on April 17, the day after the boy’s death. She was discovered trying to flee by bus to her hometown of Santa Inês, reportedly wearing a blonde wig in an attempt to avoid recognition.
Although she admitted to buying and sending the chocolates, she denies poisoning them.
Reports say that 7-year-old Lira’s son became violently ill almost immediately after eating the chocolate. He died in the hospital on April 17. His mother, Mirian Lira, and her 13-year-old daughter remain hospitalized in critical condition.
Toxicology tests are being performed on:
- The uneaten chocolates
- The deceased child
- The two survivors
According to Security official Maurício Martins, the case appears to be premeditated:
“The evidence suggests, based on several points investigated, that the crime was motivated by revenge and jealousy, given that the author’s ex-husband is the current partner or boyfriend of the victim.”
Police believe this was not the first attempt. Local outlets report that Barbosa had previously tried to poison Lira by offering her candy during a “chocolate-tasting session” at the supermarket where she worked.
Barbosa is currently in police custody as the investigation continues. Authorities are working to strengthen the case before presenting her to the judiciary to face charges for what officials are calling a barbaric crime.
If confirmed, she may be held responsible for premeditated murder, attempted murder, and the use of lethal substances.
The story has gone viral across Brazil and is now making global headlines. The horrifying reality that such a calculated attack could be carried out with something as innocent as an Easter gift has sparked widespread outrage, sadness, and calls for justice.
As the investigation unfolds, the public hopes for accountability — and prays for the recovery of the mother and her daughter.