A 69-year-old man was found dead inside his residence last Wednesday, the 30th, in the center of Gravataí, located in the Metropolitan Region of Porto Alegre. The victim, identified as Maurício Gomes Dutra, had an intellectual disability and was well-known in the city. The Civil Police classified the incident as latrocínio, or robbery followed by death.
Maurício lived with his 94-year-old mother. The suspect managed to steal the victim's cell phone, as well as credit cards and money belonging to a caregiver. Delegate Wagner Dalcin explained that the line of investigation is latrocínio due to the theft of goods from both the caregiver and the victim, mentioning that her cards and money were stolen, along with the victim's cell phone.
The Civil Police made available images from a surveillance camera in the area, which show a suspect walking away from the street shortly after the incident. According to police authorities, the physical characteristics and clothing of the person filmed match the description provided by the man's caregiver. Investigations are ongoing, with the analysis of other security cameras and awaiting the results of forensic examinations conducted by the General Institute of Forensics (IGP).
Shock in the city
Maurício's death caused great shock in Gravataí, leading the city hall to declare three days of official mourning in the municipality. The victim was the first student of the Association of Parents and Friends of Exceptional Children (Apae) in the city. Abel Cardoso Olmedo, president of the entity, expressed his sorrow, stating that although the city was in mourning, it was important to keep the memory of his smile alive.
The wake took place on Thursday at the Church of Our Lady of the Angels, located in the city center. Several residents highlighted Maurício's strong bond with the local community. Businessman Chico Pereira stated that Maurício was an idol and a beloved person by the entire population because he helped at the church itself. Resident Dolores Cauduro also emphasized his notoriety, reporting that he participated in all the church's activities and provided assistance in various communities.
Maria Pereira reinforced the collective feeling, saying that Maurício was very loved and known by everyone in Gravataí, participating in everything and being a special person to the community, deeply regretting the occurrence.
