On February 3, a homeless man was tragically killed with a machete in Benfica, located in the northern zone of Rio de Janeiro. The suspect was arrested three days later by agents from the Capital Homicide Division (DHC), who found him in Copacabana. The police utilized urban surveillance footage during their investigation, which revealed the shocking moment the victim was attacked while lying down, seemingly asleep. The assailant approached wearing a helmet, providing crucial details for law enforcement to track him down.

Evidence from the surveillance cameras played a pivotal role in identifying the suspect and confirming his involvement in the crime. It was reported that the attacker confessed to the police upon his arrest, admitting that the assault stemmed from a previous disagreement with the victim, who also was a recycler. This situation not only highlights the severe violence faced by the homeless population in Brazil but also raises concerns about societal issues surrounding mental health and the treatment of marginalized individuals.

This incident reflects the growing frustrations and dangers faced by homeless individuals in urban settings, like Rio de Janeiro, where conflict over resources such as recyclable materials can lead to tragic outcomes. The police's swift action in making the arrest might provide a semblance of justice for the victim's family but also underscores the pressing need for effective measures to protect vulnerable populations from violence and criminal activity.