Sarah Julia Melo, a 29-year-old nurse from São Luís, Brazil, became the victim of attempted feminicide when her ex-husband, Rômulo Sousa Coimbra, lured her to their former home by falsely claiming their youngest daughter was suffering from a fever. The incident occurred on Friday, October 20, in the Cidade Operária neighborhood, during which the suspect attacked Sarah with a knife. After the assault, Rômulo fled the scene and is currently wanted by law enforcement, as confirmed by the police.

Following the attack, Sarah reported the incident at the Casa da Mulher Brasileira, a facility dedicated to aiding women, on the night of Saturday, October 21. There, she registered a complaint against her ex-husband and received medical assistance. The investigating officer, Delegada Kazumi Tanaka, has indicated that the case is actively being pursued, focusing on the serious nature of the crime and the protection of the victim. In light of the circumstances, the judiciary has promptly issued an urgent protective order for Sarah, as well as a request for Rômulo's preventive detention issued in the early hours of Sunday, October 22.

Family members, including Sarah's cousin Rayelle Gatinho, revealed that she had just finished a work shift when she received the deceptive call from her ex-husband. This incident not only highlights the grave issue of domestic violence and feminicide in Brazil but also emphasizes the need for comprehensive support systems and legal protections for victims of such crimes. As the investigation unfolds, attention to the efficacy of protective measures for survivors will be a critical aspect to monitor, given the tragically common occurrences of violence against women in the region.