Eliane da Silva Pinheiro, aged 51, was discovered dead in her residence in the Cascatinha neighborhood of Petrópolis, prompting a police investigation into potential feminicide. Initially reported as a possible suicide when authorities responded to the scene, further examination revealed signs that led officials to suspect foul play.

Upon arrival, officers were informed by emergency medical personnel from Samu that the circumstances of the death were inconsistent with a self-inflicted injury. This prompted the police to secure the property to gather and protect evidence for the investigation. The 105th Police Station was notified to oversee the forensic examination, which confirmed injuries to the victim's neck, substantiating the murder investigation with a focus on gender-based violence.

The case underscores the continuing issue of feminicide in Brazil, a crime that disproportionately affects women and is marked by violence against them because of their gender. Authorities are now working to determine the events leading up to Eliane's tragic death and are appealing for information from the community to aid in their search for justice.