The relationship between Pedro Granato Oliveira, 34, and Natasha Cristina Curimbaba, 22, would have started at least two months ago, according to information from the Civil Police. Pedro was found stabbed to death at the end of July, in Poços de Caldas (MG). The main suspect in the crime, Natasha Curimbaba, was arrested this week in a psychiatric clinic located in Petrópolis (RJ).
The Civil Police has not yet clarified the motivation for the crime. Natasha already has records of previous assaults, including stabbing an ex-boyfriend, his mother and a friend. She should be heard next week.
According to the investigations, both Pedro and Natasha were drug users. Remains of drugs were found in the victim’s apartment.
Pedro Granato Oliveira was stabbed on the night of Sunday, July 28. He and Natasha spent the day together, having a barbecue and later going to Morro do Chapéu, in Vivaldi Leite Ribeiro Park, where the crime took place. “Investigations indicate that the couple left the condominium minutes before the crime and went to an open area with a privileged view of the city, normally used to observe the sunset and use drugs and alcoholic beverages,” the police said.
Security camera footage shows the moment Pedro slipped down a ravine and fell near a tree, already injured in the neck, armpit and hand. Residents called SAMU, but he died on the spot. The police discovered that Natasha returned alone to the condominium shortly after Pedro was found alive by witnesses.
Pedro Granato Oliveira was described by family members as a very dear and respected person. He was found without documents and personal belongings on the day of the crime. His identification occurred two days later, on July 30, after the family reported his disappearance and the company confirmed his absence from work. Pedro’s burial took place on July 31 at the Saudade Cemetery, in Poços de Caldas.
Natasha Cristina Curimbaba was preventively arrested on Tuesday, August 6, at a psychiatric clinic in Petrópolis. The arrest was made after the Civil Police requested a temporary arrest warrant to collect more information about the case. “We tried to contact the suspect last week, but the lawyers informed her that she was facing psychological problems,” reported police chief Cleyson Brene. Natasha was transferred to the Poços de Caldas prison and should be heard in the coming days.
In addition to the current charges, Natasha has a history of violent assaults and stints with the Military Police for involvement with drugs. The chief highlighted the similarity in the “modus operandi” of previous crimes, including the fatal blow that was delivered to the victim’s throat.
The genetic material collected at the crime scene will be analyzed in Belo Horizonte. Forensics is considered crucial for the advancement of investigations. In addition to the evidence collected, Natasha’s testimony will be vital to clarify the circumstances and motivations of the crime. Police chief Cleyson Brene does not rule out the possibility of a reconstruction of the crime, if necessary to elucidate the facts.
