The community is in mourning following the tragic discovery of 9-year-old Melina Frattolin, who was found deceased in Ticonderoga, New York. Her death comes after an Amber Alert was issued on July 20, 2025, when she was reported missing from Lake George.
Melina, described as being of Indian descent with brown hair and brown eyes, approximately 5 feet tall and weighing 100 pounds, was last seen on July 19, 2025, around 9:40 p.m. in Lake George, New York. She was reportedly wearing a blue and white striped shirt, shorts, and white Adidas sneakers. Initial reports stated she was believed to have been abducted and was in "imminent danger."
The search for Melina involved multiple agencies, including the Warren County Sheriff's Office, Essex County Sheriff's Office, Ticonderoga Police Department, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State Forest Rangers, and New York State Police K9 and Aviation units.
As the investigation progressed, law enforcement identified inconsistencies in the account and timeline provided by Melina's father, Luciano Frattolin. Due to jurisdictional considerations, the Warren County Sheriff's Office has since turned the investigation over to the New York State Police. At this time, authorities have stated there is no indication that an abduction occurred, and there is no threat to the public. The investigation remains ongoing.
A media event is anticipated on July 21, 2025, to provide further updates on this developing and heartbreaking case. The community has expressed deep sadness at the loss of Melina Frattolin, a young life taken far too soon.