Why was Barbara Jankavski, the 'Human Barbie' influencer, exhumed?

Barbara Jankavski was exhumed on February 3, 2026, because her family suspects she died by strangulation, presenting body markings as evidence, and a court ordered a new investigation.

What was the initial cause of death ruled for the 'Human Barbie' influencer?

Authorities initially ruled the death of Barbara Jankavski as an accidental heart attack resulting from cocaine use.

Who is Renato Campos Pinto de Vitto and what is his connection to the case?

Renato Campos Pinto de Vitto is a 51-year-old public defender in whose home Barbara Jankavski was found deceased; he stated he hired her for sexual services and they used cocaine together.

Home / Crime and Justice / Human Barbie Exhumed for Strangulation Autopsy

Human Barbie Exhumed for Strangulation Autopsy

7 Feb

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Summary

Influencer 'Human Barbie' exhumed for autopsy after family claims strangulation.
Death initially ruled accidental heart attack from cocaine use.
Investigation transferred to homicide unit amid new evidence.

Human Barbie Exhumed for Strangulation Autopsy

Brazilian influencer Barbara Jankavski, widely known as 'Human Barbie' due to extensive cosmetic procedures, was exhumed on February 3, 2026, from her São Paulo grave. This action followed a court order to investigate claims by her family that she died by strangulation, citing markings on her body as evidence of asphyxiation. Jankavski, 31, was found deceased on November 2, 2025, in the home of 51-year-old public defender Renato Campos Pinto de Vitto. Early investigations had attributed her death to an accidental heart attack linked to cocaine use. However, in early December 2025, the São Paulo Court of Justice redirected the investigation to the Homicide and Personal Protection Department. Prosecutors had requested neck X-rays for signs of strangulation and DNA tests from under her fingernails. De Vitto stated he hired Jankavski for sexual services, and they used cocaine together. He claimed she died after falling asleep. Police found her with an eye injury and back marks, which a friend suggested resulted from a fall. Jankavski's family has questioned the initial investigation's thoroughness, particularly the lack of forensic tests on individuals present and fingernail scrapings. De Vitto has taken medical leave from his position.