Italian authorities have arrested a 22-year-old babysitter following the discovery of a newborn’s body buried in her family’s garden in Traversetolo, near Parma. The suspect was on vacation when the grim find was made.
Prosecutor Alfonso D’Avino announced that the woman, identified by local media as Chiara Petrolini, is being investigated on charges of voluntary homicide and concealment of a corpse.
According to investigators, the discovery was made while Petrolini was holidaying with her parents in New York. Initial reports suggest that a dog belonging to the suspect’s grandmother may have unearthed the infant’s remains, leading to the police investigation.
D’Avino stated in a press conference that DNA tests have allegedly linked Petrolini to the deceased infant. “It can be established that the parents of the 22-year-old, as well as the father of the newborn, who is the same age as the young woman, were not involved,” he said. “No one – except the girl – was aware of the pregnancy: neither family members, nor the father of the child, nor friends.”
Investigators allege that Petrolini, a law student who also works as a babysitter, may have given birth alone at the family property on August 7. They suspect she then buried the infant in the garden before leaving for vacation two days later.
The case took an even more shocking turn when a second infant’s body was reportedly found during the subsequent investigation. Authorities are still examining the circumstances surrounding this second discovery.
The suspect’s ex-boyfriend, believed to be the father of at least one of the infants, claimed he was unaware of the pregnancy. Investigators reported finding internet searches related to pregnancy termination on devices linked to Petrolini.
Mayor Simone Dall’Orto expressed the community’s shock, describing the family as “well-off, wealthy… integrated into the area and without economic problems, who lived in a comfortable context.”
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging respect for the privacy of all involved and cautioning against speculation. Mental health professionals have been made available to support the community during this difficult time.
The case has sparked discussions about the need for better support systems for young adults facing unexpected pregnancies and mental health challenges. Local officials have announced plans to review and potentially expand resources for crisis intervention and counseling services in the region.
the-sun.com
