Salvador Residents Dispute Police Account of Lanche Vendor's Death

Family and residents of the São Cristóvão neighborhood in Salvador are challenging the military police's account of the death of 33-year-old lanche vendor Leonardo Gil Lima, known as 'Léo Lanches.' They assert that Lima was killed at his doorstep, was unarmed, and had no ties to criminal activity, refuting claims of a shootout. The incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, November 23rd, in the Lessa Ribeiro area. The Military Police stated that officers on patrol encountered armed individuals, leading to a gunfight, after which Lima was found shot. He was transported to Hospital Menandro de Farias but succumbed to his injuries. Residents, however, organized protests on Thursday and Friday, demanding justice and proclaiming 'Léo is innocent.' A neighbor stated Lima had just returned from work when shot, emphasizing he was a peaceful, evangelical man and a provider for his two children. His cousin, Franklin, confirmed Lima was shot in front of his home, having recently inaugurated his business six days prior. A friend, Wendel, reported a brief phone conversation with Lima moments before the shooting, which ended abruptly with the sound of gunfire. The Military Police confirmed that body cameras were used by the involved officers and that both the Civil Police and the PM's internal affairs are investigating the incident. The commander-general has ordered an administrative procedure, and the involved officers have been suspended. The Bahia Public Security Secretariat (SSP-BA) also stated that both the Civil Police and the PM's Corregedoria have opened inquiries. In related events, a bus was set ablaze on Thursday evening on Avenida Aliomar Baleeiro, causing public transport to be suspended in São Cristóvão on Friday, with rerouted services.