Who Is Luciano Frattolin? Canadian Father Held After 9-Year-Old Daughter Found Dead in Ticonderoga

Luciano Frattolin, a 45-year-old Canadian businessman, has been taken into custody after his 9-year-old daughter, Melina Galanis Frattolin, was found dead in Ticonderoga, New York.

The tragic discovery came just hours after an Amber Alert was issued for the missing child. Frattolin is currently being held at the Essex County Jail in the town of Lewis. His arrest was confirmed early Sunday morning, booked at 2:04 a.m.

The Initial Alert

Frattolin first reported his daughter missing around 10 p.m. Saturday, near Exit 22 on the Northway in Lake George. An Amber Alert was issued at 1:30 a.m. Sunday, alerting residents that the child may have been in a white van traveling south from that area.

However, later in the day, State Police said there was no evidence of an abduction. The Amber Alert was officially canceled at 4:30 p.m.

Who Was Melina?

Melina was described in Frattolin’s business bio as “the light of his life.” Frattolin, originally from Canada, is known for founding a Montreal-based coffee company. The biography makes several loving references to his daughter.

The circumstances of Melina’s death remain unclear. Authorities have not yet disclosed where her body was found, or the exact cause of death.

What Happens Next?

As of now, the charges against Frattolin have not been released. State Police say more information is expected soon. However, investigators noted that Frattolin gave inconsistent statements during questioning, raising serious concerns.

Agencies Involved in the Search

Melina’s disappearance triggered a massive search operation involving:

• New York State Police

• Essex County Sheriff’s Office

• DEC Police and Forest Rangers

• Ticonderoga Police

• K-9 and Air Units

Despite the quick response, it ended in tragedy when Melina was found dead later that day.

Unanswered Questions

Many questions remain:

• Was Melina ever in Lake George?

• How long had the two been in the U.S.?

• Why was the Amber Alert canceled if she was in danger?

So far, police have not shared these details. They are expected to give an update on Monday.