A second test confirmed it: the DNA found on an oropharyngeal swab taken from Chiara Poggi belongs to an unknown individual, identified as “Unknown 3.” This finding, part of the ongoing investigation in Garlasco, has reignited debate about the potential contamination of evidence. The Y-chromosome profile suggests the individual is male, prompting authorities in Milan and Pavia to try and identify him. Investigators are considering the possibility that “Unknown 3” could be the killer, an accomplice to Andrea Semplio as alleged by prosecutors, or perhaps a technician, investigator, or medical professional who handled the victim’s body without proper precautions during forensic examinations.
Contamination or Killer? Experts Weigh In
The forensic geneticist Denise Albani, appointed for the evidentiary accident, has stated her intention to consult with Dr. Ballardini, the medical examiner who conducted the autopsy, to clarify how the swab was collected. The results of this second test mirrored the initial findings. However, Luciano Garofano, who was the commander of the RIS (Research, Investigation, and Security Service) at the time of the initial investigations, strongly believes the DNA is a result of contamination. He argues that the gauze in question was not an oral swab but rather material used for comparison. “According to Garofano, a non-sterile gauze was used,” he stated, adding that it was introduced into Chiara’s mouth solely as comparative material.
This contamination theory is also supported by Gian Luigi Tizzoni, the lawyer representing the Poggi family. Tizzoni has consistently expressed skepticism about the need for further investigation, describing the amount of biological material as “infinitesimal.” While the Pavia prosecutor is not ruling out contamination, they acknowledge it would represent a “very anomalous circumstance.”
The gauze sample in question, already confirmed to have had some contamination according to Dr. Ballardini’s assistant, yielded 1.2 picograms per microliter of genetic material with 10 markers. The “unknown” profile, however, showed double that amount: 2.4 picograms with 22 markers. Investigators interpret this higher concentration as evidence of direct contact with Chiara’s mouth. Parallel investigations are underway to identify everyone who may have had contact with Chiara’s body, with the aim of taking their genetic profiles for comparison. Simultaneously, authorities are exploring Andrea Semplio’s social connections, which remain a central focus of the ongoing inquiry.
Notably, the investigation documents leading to Alberto Stasi’s 16-year sentence offer no clear details on how the oral swab was collected or by whom, nor do they explain why it was never analyzed. The DNA profile does not match Stasi or the new suspect, Andrea Semplio, a fact that could potentially benefit the defense.
July 15, 2025 (modification on July 15, 2025 | 07:06)
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