A law student and mother in São Paulo, Brazil, allegedly kept her landlord's decomposing body hidden in her home for five days before contacting authorities.

The 36-year-old woman is now suspected of killing at least four people over a five-month period, according to police investigators. Ana Paula Veloso Fernandes faces multiple murder charges in connection with deaths that occurred between January and May of this year, the New York Post reported.

Police describe the suspect as "extremely manipulative" and someone who "takes pleasure in killing." Veloso Fernandes only contacted the police about her landlord's body after her son complained about a foul odor and maggots began appearing throughout the residence. Police Chief Halisson Ideiao warned that the suspect "wants to kill" and would "certainly attempt to kill others" if released from custody.

Landlord's Death Sparks Renewed Investigation

The case involving landlord Marcelo Hari Fonseca was initially closed due to insufficient evidence after his death in January. Veloso Fernandes allegedly stabbed Fonseca during an argument at the residence they shared. The investigation was later reopened when the victim's daughter returned to authorities, who were already examining the suspect's connection to other suspicious deaths.

According to police reports, Veloso Fernandes eventually confessed to the killing. She told investigators she covered the entrance to the room with a sheet to prevent her son and niece from discovering the body. The suspect maintained this deception for five days until the decomposition became impossible to conceal.

After finally contacting authorities, Veloso Fernandes allegedly burned the couch where she had stabbed her landlord. She claimed this action was necessary to "remove odors" and "clean the room," according to police statements.

Pattern of Poisoning Emerges in Additional Cases

Investigators have linked Veloso Fernandes to three additional deaths during the same five-month timeframe. Most of these killings allegedly involved the use of rat poison as the murder weapon. The victims have been identified as Maria Aparecida Rodrigues, Hayder Mhazres, and Neil Correa da Silva.

Police believe financial gain and revenge served as primary motives for these murders. Authorities describe a calculated pattern of behavior suggesting premeditation in each case. The suspect's alleged methods demonstrate what investigators characterize as a disturbing level of planning and execution.

Before allegedly targeting human victims, Veloso Fernandes is accused of testing the poison on animals. Police report that she killed at least 10 dogs during what they believe was a trial phase. This practice suggests the suspect was refining her methods before escalating to human targets.

Psychological Profile Raises Serious Concerns

Police Chief Ideiao's assessment of the suspect paints a troubling psychological portrait. He described Veloso Fernandes as showing "a lack of remorse" for her alleged crimes. His public statements emphasize what he views as an ongoing threat to public safety.

The characterization of the suspect as "extremely manipulative" suggests investigators believe she used deception as a key component of her alleged crimes. This assessment has influenced the decision to keep her in custody pending further investigation. Authorities appear concerned about the potential for future violence if she were to be released.

The suspect's status as both a mother and a law student has added an unusual dimension to the case. Her dual roles in society stand in stark contrast to the brutal nature of the alleged crimes. This juxtaposition has drawn significant attention to the ongoing investigation.

Lessons to Learn

1. Be alert to changes in living conditions: The landlord’s daughter played a key role in reopening the investigation by refusing to let the case be dismissed. If you suspect dangerous activity and feel your concerns haven’t been heard, don’t be afraid to speak up again.

2. Know who you’re letting into your life: Though background checks aren’t always perfect, being cautious when entering into personal or financial relationships—like a landlord-tenant agreement—may help alert you to red flags early on.

3. Watch for abnormal behavior in your surroundings: In this case, odd efforts to conceal a room and the presence of foul odors led to a critical discovery. Although we can’t predict every crime, staying aware of unusual patterns in someone’s home or behavior can be lifesaving. No matter what steps we take, it’s essential to remember that crime can happen to anyone, and we must never blame the victims.

Why This Story Matters

This developing case unnerves the community and highlights the complexity of identifying threats hidden behind everyday appearances. That a mother and student could mask such criminality sheds light on the limitations of social assumptions about who is capable of harm. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and listening to victims' families even after a case appears closed. With the potential for more victims, this case raises urgent questions about how justice systems track interconnected violent acts over time.

Conclusion

Ana Paula Veloso Fernandes, a mother and law student from São Paulo, remains in custody as police investigate her alleged involvement in four murders. The probe began after the decomposing body of landlord Marcelo Hari Fonseca was discovered in her home days after his fatal stabbing. Authorities now attribute three additional deaths to her, which they believe were caused by poison, allegedly fueled by revenge and financial motives. Authorities continue to examine exhumed bodies and digital evidence as they build their case. The suspect is described by police as manipulative, remorseless, and a continued danger if released.