In a case that has gripped Brazil and ignited widespread outrage over domestic violence, 25-year-old influencer Maria Katiane Gomes da Silva tragically died after falling from the 10th floor of her São Paulo apartment building on November 29, 2025. What initially appeared as a possible suicide or accident has now evolved into a full-scale femicide investigation, with her husband, 40-year-old businessman Alex Leandro Bispo dos Santos, arrested and detained as the prime suspect.

Neighbors played a pivotal role in alerting authorities that fateful night. Multiple residents reported hearing intense screams, loud arguments, and a heavy thud echoing through the building around dawn. Emergency services rushed to the scene, finding Maria Katiane lifeless on the ground below, cradled in her husband’s arms. Santos initially claimed she had taken her own life following a heated dispute, insisting the fall was self-inflicted amid emotional distress.

However, security camera footage from the condominium painted a far more disturbing picture. Videos captured the couple returning home from a party in the early hours. Moments later, in the parking garage, Santos is seen aggressively pursuing Maria Katiane as she attempts to flee and hide behind pillars. He grabs her, punches her repeatedly, and drags her toward the elevator. Inside the elevator, the altercation escalates: he pulls her hair, attempts to choke her, and forcibly removes her despite her desperate resistance, clinging to the doors.

Less than two minutes after forcing her out of the elevator toward their apartment, Santos returns alone, collapsing in distress with his hands on his head. Shortly after, Maria Katiane plummeted to her death. Additional reports indicate strong noises from the apartment itself, suggesting the violence continued upstairs. Police are analyzing internal apartment cameras, though some footage remains under forensic review.

The case shifted dramatically when these videos surfaced, contradicting Santos’ account and leading to his temporary arrest on December 9 for suspected femicide—a crime specifically targeting women due to gender-based motives. Brazilian law treats femicide severely, reflecting the country’s ongoing battle against domestic abuse. Santos, who has a prior criminal record including robbery and kidnapping, attended his wife’s wake and burial in her hometown of Crateús, Ceará, on December 1, where he was filmed weeping over her coffin—an act that has fueled public suspicion.

Maria Katiane, a rising social media star with thousands of followers on Instagram and TikTok, shared vibrant content about makeup, travel, wellness, and daily life. Originally from rural northeastern Brazil, she moved to São Paulo for better opportunities, working in administration for her husband’s businesses while building her online presence. She leaves behind a young daughter from a previous relationship.

Authorities have urged the public not to share the graphic footage, emphasizing respect for the victim and the ongoing investigation. Family members, including her aunt, have publicly demanded justice, highlighting Maria Katiane’s happy demeanor and bright future cut short. The case underscores Brazil’s alarming rates of gender-based violence, prompting renewed calls for stronger protections. As forensic experts continue examining evidence, including the apartment’s balcony and any internal recordings, the nation awaits answers in this heartbreaking tragedy.