Brazilian model found stabbed in ex’s car after final warning to mother
Larissa Brito, a 25-year-old Brazilian model, was found stabbed to death in the back seat of her ex-boyfriend’s car in Brignoles, France, during a random customs check on Monday. Her body was concealed under plastic bags. Brito had texted her mother a panicked warning hours before her disappearance, stating that her ex, Mathieu, had arrived at her home. Mathieu, 29, was arrested as a murder investigation began. Brito had moved to France three years ago and ended their five-month relationship after learning of his alleged ties to local organized crime and previous drug convictions. Her mother, Liane Brito Nogueira, claimed Mathieu cleaned the apartment to destroy evidence. An autopsy is scheduled for next week, and a fundraiser has been launched to repatriate her body to Brazil.
Key points
- Larissa Brito, 25, was discovered dead in a car in Brignoles, France, during a routine customs inspection.
- Her body was hidden under plastic bags on the back seat of her ex-boyfriend’s vehicle.
- Brito sent a final text to her mother warning that her ex, Mathieu, had arrived at her home.
- Mathieu, 29, was arrested and is facing murder charges.
- Brito had ended their relationship after discovering his alleged involvement in organized crime and prior drug convictions.
- Her mother claims Mathieu cleaned the apartment to remove fingerprints and evidence.
Background
This case follows a pattern of fatal violence against women linked to former partners or associates in 2026. In August, a shooting spree in Michigan left five dead, while in September, a Mexican lawmaker was found shot in his car. Additionally, a Japanese AV actress was found dead at her ex-boyfriend’s home in mid-September, though the cause remains unknown. These incidents highlight ongoing concerns regarding domestic violence and criminal cover-ups.
Why it matters
The case underscores the dangers faced by individuals with connections to organized crime and the critical role of random inspections in uncovering concealed crimes. It also highlights the importance of digital evidence, such as final text messages, in solving high-profile murders. The international aspect, involving a Brazilian victim in France, complicates legal proceedings and repatriation efforts.
What to watch
An autopsy is scheduled for next week to determine the cause and time of death. The murder investigation will continue, potentially leading to further charges against Mathieu. The family’s fundraiser aims to secure funds for repatriating Brito’s body to Brazil.
- Model found dead in ex’s car hours after texting panicked warning about him nypost.com
- Model Larissa Brito, 25, Found Dead Inside Ex-Partner’s Car During Routine Customs Check: Reports People.com
- Model, 25, found dead in ex boyfriend's car hidden under plastic bags after being stopped for customs inspection the-sun.com
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