The trial of Vagner Dias de Oliveira, accused of the murder of Raphaela Salsa Ferreira Dias de Oliveira, commenced on January 28, 2026, in Rio de Janeiro. Raphaela, a 38-year-old nursing student, was found burned to death in 2023 after disappearing from the city’s West Zone. Her ex-husband, Vagner, was arrested shortly after the incident.
According to the autopsy report, Raphaela was burned alive, with soot found in her respiratory tract, indicating she died from smoke inhalation. The report suggests she was alive during the burning, eventually succumbing to asphyxiation and thermal injuries. Her body was discovered charred on the BR-101 highway, over 40 kilometers from her home, by a truck driver who alerted the authorities.
Raphaela’s family revealed she feared Vagner, with whom she had a 14-year relationship and two children. Testimonies from her daughter, cousin, and current boyfriend highlighted her concerns about Vagner’s jealousy. The daughter mentioned that Vagner was unable to accept their separation and might have reacted violently if he discovered Raphaela’s new relationship. The couple had been separated for approximately three months at the time of the incident.
Investigations revealed that Vagner allegedly abducted Raphaela as she returned home from a class. She was last seen in a ride-share vehicle heading home when Vagner reportedly purchased gasoline from a nearby station. It is suspected that she was unconscious when Vagner acquired the fuel. Her identity was confirmed through dental records and tattoos.
