Italian mother confesses to murder and dismemberment

A 61-year-old nurse in Gemona del Friuli admits killing her son, dismembering him and concealing the body with lime, saying she acted to protect his girlfriend and their baby.

Italian mother confesses to murdering her son and dismembering his body

In Gemona del Friuli, prosecutors say 61-year-old Lorena Venier confessed to murdering her 35-year-old son Alessandro Venier and dismembering his body, later concealing it with lime. Investigators allege the plan began with a tranquiliser and insulin injections before Alessandro was killed and his remains were hidden. Mailyn Castro Monsalvo, Alessandro’s partner and the mother of his six‑month‑old baby, is also involved in the case, with authorities saying she may have helped. The girlfriend has given a version of events she says aimed to shield them from harm.

The baby has been placed in state care while the post mortem is carried out and charges are prepared. The small town near Udine has reacted with shock, and local officials stress that such violence is rare. Officials say the investigation will determine the full sequence of events and accountability for those involved.

This case highlights how fear and perceived threats can drive drastic acts within a family setting. It also raises questions about how far family members will go to protect others, even when that protection involves violence. The involvement of a vulnerable partner and a young child adds ethical and legal pressure on social services to respond swiftly and protect the child. The community faces a painful reckoning about what signals a crisis and when intervention failed or was inadequate. As prosecutors press forward, observers will watch how authorities balance compassion for victims with the demands of a thorough criminal process.

Highlights

The case will test how communities balance care and accountability in the wake of a brutal act.