Escaped prisoner arrested on suspicion of killing mother and burying body in balcony planter in Olhão

A 40-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of murdering her 58-year-old mother and burying her body in a planter on the balcony of the victim’s home in Olhão, Portugal’s Judicial Police (PJ) have announced.

The victim’s body was discovered by PJ investigators after a missing person report was filed by “someone who knew her”.

Police said the woman had been buried beneath soil in a balcony flower bed and showed clear signs of a violent death.

According to investigators, the victim lived alone until her daughter moved into the property. The PJ said the pair were widely known to have had a troubled relationship marked by frequent arguments and conflict.

The investigation began after the victim’s disappearance was reported and quickly led detectives to identify the daughter as the prime suspect.

The PJ said the woman was located in Olhão despite having changed her appearance, allegedly in preparation to leave the Algarve.

Investigators also revealed that the suspect had been on the run from prison since January 2024. She was serving a sentence for domestic violence when she escaped from the prison where she was being held.

She is due to appear before an investigating judge for a first judicial hearing, where coercive measures will be determined.

The investigation is being led by the Faro Public Prosecutor’s Office (DIAP).

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.