A Brazilian prison officer has been sentenced to four decades behind bars for the fatal shooting of a Fluminense supporter and the attempted murder of another man. The violent incident occurred in a crowded bar near the Maracanã stadium following a major football derby.
The convicted officer, Marcelo de Lima, was found guilty of homicide and attempted homicide with triple qualification. The court cited the vile motive, the danger posed to other patrons, and the victims' inability to defend themselves as aggravating factors. In addition to his prison term, he will be stripped of his public office.
The crime took place on the night of April 1, 2023, after the classic Flamengo versus Fluminense match. The victims were socializing in a bar packed with tricolor fans when the off-duty officer opened fire. Surveillance footage captured the chaotic moment as nine shots rang out, forcing patrons to dive for cover behind tables and walls.
The victim, 36-year-old Thiago Leonel, was a cameraman, director of photography, and samba musician. He was a founding member of the group Samba pra Roda, which frequently performed at the bar. He died at the scene after being struck by multiple bullets.
The second victim, Bruno Tonini, suffered severe injuries and underwent emergency surgery. He lost a kidney, his spleen, and parts of his liver and intestine in the attack.
Initial witness statements suggested the altercation began over a dispute for two small pizzas at the bar counter. However, the investigation later dismissed this version of events. The Public Prosecutor's Office concluded the shooting stemmed from political disagreements between the officer and the victims.
During the trial, Marcelo de Lima claimed he felt threatened and acted in self-defense. He also expressed sadness that reports had linked the killing to a pizza dispute. The defendant retains the right to appeal the verdict.
Based on reporting from g1.