In a tragic incident in Campos Belos, Goiás, Mariana Soares de Melo Oliveira was allegedly set on fire by her ex-partner, Carlos Roberto de Souza Costa. The horrifying event took place on February 11, when Costa doused Mariana in alcohol and ignited her, leading to her death. The court heard from a judge that the couple's 6-year-old daughter witnessed the traumatic scene, which has underscored the severe emotional toll such domestic violence can have on children.

Judge Thales Prestrêlo Valadares Leão recounted the details of the case during a custody hearing for Costa, emphasizing the cruelty of the act as described by Mariana's brother, Aleixo da Cunha Melo, who found her in distress at their home. The case has sent ripples through the community, highlighting alarming issues surrounding domestic violence in Brazil, and it has prompted discussions about the need for stronger protective measures for victims and their families.

The incident has drawn significant media attention, causing the court to deliberate on the severity of the situation and the necessary measures to protect the child involved. The attorney representing Costa has since renounced the case, indicating that there may be complexities in the defense strategy. The societal implications of such violence not only affect the immediate victims but also the witnesses, particularly children, who are left to process the trauma inflicted upon their loved ones in terrifying circumstances.