In a major breakthrough, Brazilian law enforcement has apprehended a man they describe as a serial killer targeting the homeless population. Marcelo Campos de Jesus, aged 37, is now in custody, accused of a string of brutal murders spanning two states over a six-month period.
The investigation intensified following the fatal attack on Vanilson Pereira, a 50-year-old homeless man, in the Serra municipality of Espírito Santo on April 27. Security footage captured the suspect surveying the area, then using a concrete block from a nearby manhole to strike the sleeping victim in the head. Pereira succumbed to his injuries after nearly ten days in the hospital.
Following this arrest, police linked Marcelo to six additional homicides in Bahia. The alleged victims include Marilene da Ressurreição Lopes, Valdemar da Silva, Jandira Luz Nascimento, Djalma Vilela Pereira, and two unidentified men. Most were attacked with blunt force trauma while in vulnerable positions.
Investigators noted the suspect's methodical approach. After the attack on Pereira, he reportedly stole the victim's wallet, which contained only R$12, and used the money to buy candy and phone chips. He then allegedly returned the murder weapon to its hiding place to conceal evidence.
The mother of Vanilson Pereira shared her grief, explaining her son had lived on the streets for three decades following a period of depression. She learned of the attack through a television news report.
Police officials emphasized the predatory nature of the crimes. The suspect allegedly targeted individuals who were asleep and unable to defend themselves, acting only when he believed no witnesses were present.
The case has drawn attention to the vulnerability of homeless communities. Marcelo Campos de Jesus now faces multiple homicide charges as the investigation continues across both Espírito Santo and Bahia.
Based on reporting from g1.