Investigation Launched After 9-Year-Old Found Dead in New York

Authorities are investigating the death of a 9-year-old girl found in a wooded area of upstate New York. The New York State Police (NYSP) announced this after noting “contradictions” in the statements of her father.

Luciano Fratlin, 45, was arrested early Monday and is currently being held at the Essex County Jail. The police confirmed he was in custody as they awaited proceedings in Ticonderoga Town Court.

The victim, Melina Galanis Fratlin, had been reported missing late Saturday while visiting Lake George, New York, after arriving from Canada.

Initially, an Amber Alert was issued shortly after midnight Sunday based on the father’s claim regarding Melina’s alleged abduction. But by Sunday morning, the alert was canceled when investigators identified discrepancies in his account.

Search efforts were intensified, utilizing aerial units, K9s, and forest rangers. Tragically, Melina’s body was discovered later that day near Route 74 in Ticonderoga, where she was pronounced dead at the scene.

While authorities are still probing the circumstances surrounding her death, no official charges have been levied against Fratlin as of yet. The Essex County District Attorney’s Office has taken notice of the case, and an autopsy will be conducted.

A press conference has been scheduled for Monday morning in Latham, New York, where further details are expected to be shared by the NYSP.