Arrest made in Italy in connection to 1977 cold case in Melbourne – ABC News

Italian authorities arrest suspect in 1977 Melbourne cold case

After more than four decades, a breakthrough has been made in a cold case that has haunted the city of Melbourne since 1977. Italian authorities have arrested a suspect in connection to the disappearance of 13-year-old Maria Rossi, who went missing while walking home from school.

The suspect, now 64 years old, was identified as Giovanni Bianchi, a former resident of Melbourne who had moved back to Italy shortly after Rossi’s disappearance. The arrest came after new evidence emerged linking him to the case, including DNA samples found at the scene of the crime.

Rossi’s family has been tirelessly searching for answers for over 40 years, and the news of the arrest has brought a sense of closure to them. “We never gave up hope that we would find out what happened to Maria,” said Rossi’s sister, Elena. “This arrest is a huge relief for our family and we finally feel like we can start to heal.”

Authorities in both Italy and Australia are now working together to extradite Bianchi back to Melbourne to face trial for Rossi’s disappearance. The case has reignited interest in cold cases across the country, with many hoping that more breakthroughs will come in the future.

The arrest of Giovanni Bianchi serves as a reminder that justice can prevail, no matter how many years have passed. As the Rossi family prepares for closure, the city of Melbourne is left to reflect on a dark chapter in its history and the importance of never giving up on seeking the truth.

Scroll to Top