A 59-year-old grandmother, Izabel Cardoso de Andrade, has been arrested in Brazil for allegedly poisoning her two grandchildren with a cake, leading to the death of one.
The incident occurred on July 23, during the summer holidays when the children were visiting her in São Francisco, eastern Brazil. Police say Cardoso de Andrade baked the deadly treat, which was later found to contain terbufos, a highly toxic pesticide.
The nine-year-old victim, Alana dos Santos Cardoso Marques, fell gravely ill shortly after eating the cake. Her 11-year-old sister, who consumed a smaller portion, experienced milder symptoms. Even the family cat, which tasted the cake, later died.
According to reports, the children began vomiting and complaining of severe stomach pain. Alana reportedly expelled a white liquid from her nose, prompting her grandparents to seek help.
A neighbour rushed her to hospital, but she tragically died of cardiopulmonary arrest soon after arrival.
Police collected samples of the cake, which tested positive for terbufos. Forensic reports confirmed the chemical in both the cake and Alana’s body. The pesticide attacks the central nervous system, causing muscle weakness, seizures, breathing difficulties, and, in high doses, death.
The family cat, after being examined by a vet, was found to have died of liver failure consistent with poisoning.
Cardoso de Andrade was arrested on Friday, September 19. Her lawyer, Raphael Simões de Moraes Neto, said she voluntarily cooperated with investigators and allowed searches at her home.
Authorities are investigating whether the poisoning was intentional or accidental. No clear motive has been established yet, and investigations remain ongoing.
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