American Man Arrested for Alleged Double Murder in Rome
Suspect Detained in Greece
An American man, under the alias Rexal Ford, has been arrested on a Greek island in connection with the suspected murder of a woman and her infant daughter in Rome. The 46-year-old, identified as Charles Francis Kaufmann from California, was apprehended on Skiathos Island following an Italian warrant. Italian prosecutor Francesco Lo Voi cited “strong evidence” linking Kaufmann to the deaths of the victims, whose bodies were discovered in Villa Pamphili Park in Rome last week.
Discovery of the Bodies
The grim discovery took place on June 7, when police found the naked bodies of a 30-year-old woman and her baby girl in the renowned park. The woman’s body was concealed under a black bag, while the infant was found several hundred yards away in nearby bushes. Although the cause of the woman’s death remains undetermined, deputy prosecutor Giuseppe Cascini noted there is “reasonable suspicion” of a double homicide.
Timeline and Investigation
Authorities believe the deaths occurred days prior to the discovery of the bodies. Kaufmann was reportedly seen with the mother and child on multiple occasions, speaking English. Police later tracked the group to a homeless shelter near the Vatican, though the nature of their relationship remains unclear.
Investigators uncovered vital evidence, including Kaufmann’s fingerprints found on the black bag covering the woman, which matched a scrap of material from a tent provided to homeless individuals. Cell phone data ultimately helped law enforcement locate Kaufmann in Greece, where he fled shortly before his arrest.
Legal Proceedings
Kaufmann, who has been using the false identity since 2019, had presented himself as a filmmaker scouting locations in Italy. Following his arrest in Greece, he is currently awaiting extradition to Italy, but his legal team is reportedly advocating for his return to the United States.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on piecing together the events leading up to this tragedy. The identities of the victims have not yet been disclosed, but both are believed to be American nationals.
Ongoing Developments
This case has captured public attention due to its shocking nature and the international dimensions involved. Further updates are expected as Italian officials continue their inquiries and seek to confirm the identities of the deceased.
As more details emerge, this developing story underscores the devastating impact of violence and the complexities surrounding identities in the digital age.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.