Italian Model Stabbed 24 Times in Balcony Horror
The tragic death of Pamela Genini, a 29-year-old Italian model and entrepreneur, has sent shockwaves through Milan and beyond. Found dead in her apartment after allegedly being stabbed 24 times, Genini's story is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by many in abusive relationships. The alleged attacker, her estranged partner Gianluca Soncin, 52, reportedly attempted suicide after the assault. This article explores the details of this harrowing case, the circumstances leading up to the murder, and the broader implications for domestic violence awareness.
A Night of Horror in Milan
On the evening of October 14, neighbors in the Gorla district of Milan were alarmed by screams coming from Pamela Genini's apartment. Concerned residents called the police after hearing desperate pleas for help. When officers arrived, a neighbor on a nearby balcony shouted to get their attention about the violent scene unfolding inside Genini's top-floor apartment. Police broke down the door to find Genini fatally wounded on the terrace, having sustained 24 stab wounds to her neck, back, chest, upper limbs, and hands. The attack was allegedly carried out by her former partner, Gianluca Soncin, as reported by PEOPLE.
After the brutal assault, Soncin allegedly turned the knife on himself, stabbing his own neck twice in an apparent suicide attempt. He was rushed to Milan's Niguarda Hospital, where he is in stable condition but remains under police supervision. Authorities have charged him with aggravated homicide, stalking, premeditation, and femicide — a term used in Italy to describe the killing of a woman due to gender-based motives or domestic violence, which carries harsher penalties.
A Relationship Marked by Strain and Fear
The relationship between Genini and Soncin had reportedly been troubled for months. A friend of the victim told authorities that Genini had been planning to leave Soncin, and evidence suggests she was actively seeking to end the relationship, as reported by PEOPLE. A second former partner described the relationship as strained, and testimonies indicate that Soncin had been stalking Genini. Some witnesses also claimed she had suffered physical abuse and threats from him
Adding to the chilling nature of the crime, Soncin allegedly used a copied key to enter Genini's apartment weeks before the attack, a detail reported by PEOPLE and attributed to local sources. This premeditation underscores the danger Genini faced and highlights the challenges victims of domestic violence often endure, even when trying to escape abusive situations.
Pamela Genini: More Than a Model
Pamela Genini was not just a model; she was a multifaceted entrepreneur and public figure. According to the New York Post, she had modeled in high-fashion campaigns in Milan and co-founded the swimwear brand SheLux. She also ran a luxury real estate business and appeared on the Italian reality dating show "The Island of Adam and Eve," where contestants participate naked. Her Instagram presence reflected a glamorous lifestyle, with posts from vacations in Portofino and red carpet appearances at the Venice Film Festival.
This public image contrasts sharply with the private terror she seemingly endured, reminding us that domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of status or success.
The Suspect's Background
Gianluca Soncin, the accused, is a wealthy and well-connected businessman in Italy. The New York Post reports that he was arrested in 2010 by Palermo's financial police in connection with a ring accused of selling luxury cars at artificially low prices and evading taxes through false invoices. However, it remains unclear if he was ever convicted in that case.
This background adds complexity to the case, illustrating how individuals with significant resources and connections can still be involved in violent crimes. It also raises questions about the intersection of power, wealth, and domestic violence.
The Aftermath and Broader Implications
The murder of Pamela Genini has sparked conversations about femicide and domestic violence in Italy and beyond. According to the New York Post, Soncin has been charged with aggravated stalking, premeditation, and femicide.
References: Italian Model Found Dead After Allegedly Being Stabbed by Ex: Reports | Italian model Pamela Genini stabbed over 20 times to death by boyfriend on apartment balcony: report
