The disappearance and subsequent death of any child is a heartbreaking tragedy. In Melina Frattolin’s case, this truth is no different.
Keep reading to learn more.
On 19th July, 2025 a call was received by Warren County’s emergency services just before 10 p.m. On the phone, a man reported his 9-year-old daughter missing in Lake George, New York near Exit 22 on I-87. The caller was identified as 45-year-old Luciano Frattolin from Canada. The possible abducted child was his daughter, Melina Frattolin. An immediate search was called after the call was received.
As the investigation began, law enforcement immediately began to note inconsistencies in the account her father gave. The timeline he provided did not match up with the evidence the officials had collected. Authorities later went on to claim that no abduction had actually taken place.
The search efforts expanded with multiple agencies participating, including the Essex Country Sheriff’s Office, Ticonderoga Police Department, and several New York State law enforcement units. K9 and aviation teams were also utilized in the search.
Unfortunately, Melina was not found alive. Her body was eventually discovered near Ticonderoga, New York. The case lies in the jurisdiction of the New York State Police. Offcials have announced that there is not threat to the public but they continue their investigation.
After her body was found, the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) of New York State released a statement. The message was attributed to PBA President James McCartney.
It read, “The PBA of New York State is extremely saddened to learn of the death of Melina Galanis Frattolin. Our PBA-member New York State Forest Rangers coordinated the search.”
According to the statement, Melina’s body was found by a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Officer, also a PBA member, while they conducted a grid search of the area of Ticonderoga.
The statement also expressed condolences to the victim’s family as well acknowledging the emotional toll the case had on the officers involved. “Our thoughts are also with our member Forest Rangers and ECOs dealing with the grief of this horrific tragedy,” James said in the statement.
In the center of the investigation is the father, Luciano. The grieving dad is an entrepreneur based in Canada. He often posted images of his daughter on social media, with adoring captions for her.
The investigation into Melina’s unfortunate death continues.
We hope the case is solved soon and justice is brought to the young girl and her family. Share this with others so they can updated with what is going on in this case.