Influencer Killed in Street Shooting Three Years After Partner's Death

Two suspects on a motorcycle opened fire on Francisca Roberta “Robertinha” de Jesus Silva as she sat outside a neighbour’s home on the evening of 14 May in Coelho Neto, Brazil. Witnesses reported that she attempted to flee but was hit multiple times, including shots to her head, leg, and back, resulting in her death at the scene.

Following the shooting, authorities tracked down one suspect who was killed in a subsequent shootout. This individual was reportedly under investigation for involvement in other local homicides. The second suspect, a 17-year-old identified as the motorbike driver, remains at large.

Background of Previous Violence

Robertinha was the partner of Fernando Rocha Alves, also known as Fernando Cigano or “Fernando the Gypsy,” who was murdered in February 2023. Armed assailants ambushed the couple, fatally shooting Alves multiple times. Robertinha survived that attack despite being shot twice in the right leg.

After the incident, she relocated to Nova Mutum but returned to Coelho Neto on 13 May with her sister and a friend shortly before the fatal shooting.

Social Media Presence and Investigation

At the time of her death, Robertinha had approximately 12,900 followers on a social media account where she posted comedy, daily life content, and light-hearted videos with her mother. She also operated a secondary account focused on fitness, which had fewer followers.

Authorities are examining whether her murder is connected to Alves’s killing, considering the possibility of revenge or a settling of scores. Investigators are also exploring links to gang-related activities or other criminal cases in Coelho Neto.