In a heartbreaking incident, Ana Paula Ribeiro de Souza, 54, and her beloved dog lost their lives when her home was set ablaze by her boyfriend, according to authorities. The tragic event occurred early morning on January 17 in Deerfield Beach, Florida, when police were dispatched to a burning duplex.
Upon arrival, Broward County Sheriff’s Office officials discovered the charred remains of de Souza inside the engulfed home. The exact cause of her death has not been immediately disclosed. Alongside de Souza, her dog also perished in the fire, adding to the sorrow of the devastating loss.
Investigations revealed that Genivaldo Gomes Moreira, also a resident of Deerfield Beach, was responsible for the arson and the killing of de Souza. As reported by WSVN, Gomes Moreira fled the scene in a 2002 gold Saturn following the tragic event. Authorities tracked him down and arrested him two days later in Manatee County.
Currently, Gomes Moreira remains in custody at the Manatee County jail and has not yet been extradited to Broward County. There, he is expected to face multiple charges, including felony murder, arson, and cruelty to animals. The severity of these charges underscores the gravity of the crimes committed against de Souza and her pet.
Ana Paula Ribeiro de Souza was a devoted mother and grandmother, leaving behind four children and three grandchildren. Her family initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support them during this difficult time. The campaign beautifully captures her spirit: “Paula was the kind of person who always had a smile to give, a comforting word to share, and a helping hand for anyone in need. She left behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication to her family and friends. Sadly, she left us unexpectedly, and now it is our mission to honor her memory in the best way possible.”
The GoFundMe campaign successfully raised over $10,000 by January 21, the day of de Souza’s funeral service, highlighting the community’s support and the outpouring of grief over her untimely death.
In the wake of the tragedy, de Souza’s daughter, Kimberly Silva, expressed her profound sorrow to NBC 6: “She didn’t deserve this. Her life was just going to church and coming home being with her children.” Silva’s heartfelt statement encapsulates the deep sense of loss felt by her family and friends.
This tragic case not only highlights the personal loss endured by de Souza’s family but also raises concerns about domestic violence and the safety of individuals in abusive relationships. As the legal proceedings against Gomes Moreira continue, the community remains united in mourning the loss of a beloved mother, grandmother, and pet.