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In a heart-wrenching incident that has left a family shattered, a Christmas gathering in Brazil turned into a scene of horror when three women tragically lost their lives after consuming a cake laced with arsenic. Jefferson Luiz Moraes, the grieving husband of one of the victims, Maida Bernice Flores da Silva, expressed his profound sorrow, describing the loss as creating a “hole” in his heart.
The incident occurred during a holiday celebration in Torres on December 23, where the family enjoyed what they believed to be a festive treat.
The deadly dessert: A family celebration gone wrong
The Brazilian Christmas cake, known as Bolo de Natal, became the center of a devastating tragedy.
Jefferson, 60, recounted how his wife and two female relatives began to feel unwell shortly after tasting the cake, which they described as having a “bad taste.” Within hours, Maida, 58, and Tatiana Denize Silva dos Anjos, 43, succumbed to cardiac arrest, while Neuza Denize Silva dos Anjos, Tatiana’s 65-year-old mother, passed away the following day due to shock from poisoning.
The family’s holiday spirit was shattered, replaced by grief and confusion as they struggled to comprehend the horror that had unfolded.
Investigation reveals shocking details
Authorities quickly launched an investigation into the incident, leading to the arrest of Deise Moura dos Anjos, Zeli’s daughter-in-law, who was charged with triple homicide.
Investigators discovered alarming levels of arsenic in the victims’ blood, with concentrations up to 350 times higher than lethal doses. Traces of the toxic substance were also found in the cake and its ingredients, raising questions about the preparation process.
Reports indicate that the suspect had conducted online research about arsenic prior to the incident, suggesting a premeditated act of malice.
A community in shock and mourning
The tragic event has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many expressing disbelief that a holiday celebration could turn so deadly.
Jefferson reflected on the series of events that led to this tragedy, revealing a sense of terror that has engulfed his family. The investigation has even prompted authorities to exhume the body of Zeli’s deceased husband, who had previously been ruled to have died from natural causes, only to later discover he had also ingested arsenic. This revelation has deepened the family’s anguish, as they grapple with the implications of this horrifying discovery.
As the community mourns the loss of three beloved family members, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can lurk in seemingly innocent traditions. The family’s story resonates deeply, highlighting the fragility of life and the devastating impact of betrayal during what should have been a joyful time.
