The fatal incident, which occurred on Sunday, November 30, has drawn national attention and highlighted the young man’s long-standing struggles with severe vulnerability, untreated mental health disorders, and a history of legal troubles.
According to police chief Josenice de Andrade Francisco, Machado had 16 prior offenses, mostly involving property damage and petty theft. She explained to Metrópoles that Gerson showed clear signs of mental instability. During his most recent police encounter last week, officers even submitted a request for psychiatric hospitalization — a request she believes was never reviewed or approved.
Police officers familiar with Gerson reported that he frequently spoke about his dream of going to Africa to care for lions, insisting he could make the journey “on foot.” Officers recalled trying to gently explain the impossibility of such a trip, but noted that he appeared unable to fully grasp their warnings.
