Navy Lieutenant Found Dead in Quarters at USP; Federal Police Investigate

Brazil’s Federal Police (PF) and Navy are investigating the death of Second Lieutenant Beatriz Fickert Santoro, 33, found dead on Thursday afternoon (24) inside the Navy’s Technological Center, a unit located on the University of São Paulo’s (USP) main campus, where the officer worked.

What is known so far

According to the Navy, Beatriz was found unconscious in her quarters, and a medical team from the unit was immediately called. She was taken to USP’s University Hospital but arrived without vital signs. A doctor at the hospital declined to issue a death certificate, and the case was classified by the Military Police as a suspicious death.

Military police officers reported being denied access to the location where the body was found. According to a Civil Police record, the body already showed signs consistent with an earlier time of death before it was removed, prompting an inquiry into possible procedural misconduct related to altering the scene. Because the death occurred at a military facility, the investigation into the circumstances was transferred to the Federal Police.

Who was Beatriz Fickert Santoro

A mechanical engineer by training, Beatriz held the rank of Second Lieutenant (RM2-EN) in the Brazilian Navy. In a statement, the Navy expressed condolences and said it is providing social, psychological and religious support to her family and friends, adding that the causes and circumstances of her death remain under investigation by the relevant authorities.

This is an ongoing case, and OnTheNet will update this story as authorities confirm further details.