9-Year-Old Canadian Girl Found Dead After False Kidnapping Report

On the evening of July 19, 2025, 45‑year‑old Canadian businessman Luciano Frattolin alerted authorities that his 9‑year‑old daughter, Melina Galanis Frattolin, had vanished near Exit 22 on Interstate 87 by Lake George. He claimed she might have been abducted—prompting an Amber Alert and a multi‑agency search involving K‑9 teams and aircraft. Hundreds of officers across several New York jurisdictions mobilized to find her.

Inconsistencies Shake the Case

Local and state police soon discovered troubling gaps in Luciano's account. Variations in his timeline and description raised red flags, leading them to believe the abduction story didn’t hold up. Despite the confusion, the Amber Alert remained active until investigators uncovered Melina's body on July 20, in Ticonderoga, approximately 30–35 miles northeast of Lake George.

No Threat to the Public

New York State Police have made it clear: there’s no indication Melina was abducted, and the public remains safe. No arrests or charges have been made, and the cause of death hasn't been released. Investigators were expected to provide updates in a Monday press briefing.

Luciano, described on his social media and business website as a dedicated father, is painted as a man whose daughter was “the light of his life.” He could not be reached for comment, despite media attempts through LinkedIn, Instagram, and his company’s channels