Brazilian referee 'decapitated after stabbing player' in amateur football match
Your support helps us to tell the story
As your White House correspondent, I ask the tough questions and seek the answers that matter.
Your support enables me to be in the room, pressing for transparency and accountability. Without your contributions, we wouldn't have the resources to challenge those in power.
Your donation makes it possible for us to keep doing this important work, keeping you informed every step of the way to the November election
Andrew Feinberg
White House Correspondent
A man has been arrested after an amateur football game in Brazil turned into a gruesome double murder scene.
Problems arose when the referee Octavio da Silva Catanhede Jordan, 20, sent off Josenir dos Santos Abreu, 30, during the match last Sunday in Maranhao. According to Correio24horas, a Brazilian newspaper, Josenir refused to leave and insulted the referee, who then stabbed the player.
Spectators apparently ran onto the pitch in rage to take revenge. According to reports, the referee was allegedly tied up and stoned to death before being quartered and then beheaded on the pitch.
A 27-year-old man is said to have been arrested, and police are seeking two other suspects. Josenir was taken to hospital but later died of his injuries, according to
Police chief Valter Costa said: "One crime never justifies another crime. Actions likes this do not collaborate with the legality of state law."
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments