The Pavia Prosecutor’s Office continues its investigation into Chiara Poggi’s 2007 murder in Garlasco, pursuing the male genetic profile detected on non-sterile gauze used during the initial biological evidence collection from the victim’s oral cavity 18 years ago. Investigators are expanding their search beyond personnel who handled the body to include Poggi’s social circle, acquaintances of her brother Marco Poggi, and associates of Andrea Sempio—recent charged as a co-conspirator in the murder.
Prosecutors and Carabinieri now face the critical task of identifying the owner of the Y chromosome isolated during evidentiary hearings from two samples. One sample contained additional traces from an autopsy-room nurse, whose DNA also contaminated a third sample. Unlike the mass DNA testing in the Yara Gambirasio case, investigators will focus specifically on forensic technicians present at the crime scene and Poggi’s close friends.
The probe will also examine Sempio’s high school peers, his personal connections, Marco Poggi’s friends, and individuals who frequented the Poggi family’s Via Pascoli residence. A pivotal first step involves determining whether the “Unknown 3” DNA resulted from contamination—a theory favored by defense consultants. Should contamination be ruled out, investigators will broaden the search to everyone who interacted with Poggi, noting she opened her door without hesitation on August 13, 2007, suggesting familiarity with her visitor.