Brazilian Woman Dies During 'Exorcism' Ritual

In the Jardim Limoeiro neighborhood of Serra, Espirito Santo, Brazil, a 26-year-old man named Bryan Fernando Gimenez Souza killed his friend during an 'exorcism' ritual. The incident came to light when neighbors reported hearing screams from the apartment and attempted to intervene via the intercom system before seeking help. Upon entering the apartment, a neighbor found Marceli de Oliveira Gottardo experiencing convulsions on the floor. A nursing student living in the building provided initial care, but the emergency responders confirmed Marceli's death at the scene. The investigation revealed signs of strangulation, facial trauma, ear bleeding, and multiple bruises on Marceli's body. The autopsy report stated that the primary cause of death was 'brain damage due to blunt force trauma and internal bleeding'. The police arrested Souza, who admitted to the crime and claimed he was trying to 'exorcise' Marceli, believing she was possessed by demons. This incident adds to the list of tragic cases in Brazil resulting from superstition and pseudo-spiritual rituals. The investigation is ongoing.