A seven-year-old boy has died, and two individuals are in critical condition after consuming allegedly poisoned Easter eggs sent by a former girlfriend in Imperatriz, Brazil.
Jordélia Pereira Barbosa, 35, was arrested last Thursday, April 17, 2025, after she allegedly sent tainted chocolate Easter eggs to her ex-boyfriend’s new partner, 32-year-old Mirian Lira. The package contained a note addressed to Lira, wishing her a happy Easter. Shortly after receiving the package, Lira reportedly got an anonymous call inquiring if she had received it.
Investigators stated that Lira shared the chocolates with her children, seven-year-old Luis Silva and 13-year-old Evelyn Fernanda, on Wednesday, April 15. Luis fell ill immediately after consuming the chocolate and was taken to a nearby hospital, where he passed away the next day. Lira and her daughter remain in critical condition at the same hospital.
The Maranhão Civil Police reported that Barbosa attempted to disguise herself while purchasing the chocolates. “There are several indications that point to this woman being the perpetrator of the crime,” said Maurício Martins, a security official in Brazil.
Barbosa was arrested while traveling on a bus to her hometown of Santa Inês. Authorities found evidence linking her to the crime, including receipts for the chocolate purchase, two wigs, scissors, cards, a saw knife, and several unidentified substances.
Security camera footage allegedly shows Barbosa wearing a black wig while purchasing the Easter eggs at a supermarket. Although Barbosa acknowledged buying the chocolates, she denies poisoning them. The remaining chocolate eggs are undergoing laboratory testing, and blood samples from the victims are being analyzed to identify the specific poison used.
This incident was reportedly not Barbosa’s first attempt to harm Lira. According to Imperatriz Online, she previously tried to poison her rival during a chocolate-tasting session at the supermarket where Lira was employed.
Police stated that Barbosa’s former boyfriend provided information that led them to suspect her. Authorities believe the alleged poisoning was driven by revenge and jealousy.
The incident has impacted the community in Imperatriz, Maranhão. Neighbors described Luis as a cheerful child who frequently played in the area. His father has been informed of the situation and is cooperating with authorities.
Medical staff at the hospital where Lira and her daughter are being treated have not disclosed detailed information about their condition, citing patient confidentiality. However, sources familiar with the case indicated that both remain intubated in the intensive care unit.
The police investigation is ongoing as forensic experts work to establish a definitive link between the chocolate eggs and the poisoning. Authorities are collecting additional witness statements and examining cell phone records for further evidence.
If convicted, Barbosa could face severe penalties under Brazilian law for premeditated murder and attempted murder. Legal experts note that the planning and targeting of children could be considered aggravating factors in the case.
This is not the first recent poisoning incident to gain attention in Brazil. In December, a woman allegedly baked and laced a Christmas cake with arsenic, resulting in the deaths of two relatives and the hospitalization of three others.
The poisoned Easter eggs case remains under investigation by the Maranhão Civil Police, who are building a comprehensive case against Barbosa. The surviving victims’ conditions are being closely monitored as they continue to receive treatment.
