BUENOS AIRES, February 22 — Ten years have passed since Gladys Steffani and Juan Menegazzo last heard the voices of their daughters, María José Coni and Marina Menegazzo. What began as a backpacking adventure through South America ended in tragedy, becoming one of the most harrowing crimes in recent history: the murders in Montañita, Ecuador. The case, which sparked international outrage and a swift response from Ecuadorian authorities, continues to resonate as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by travelers and the enduring pain of loss.
According to reports from the Agencia Noticias Argentinas, based on a reconstruction by Cinthia Ruth in Infobae, the two young women were enjoying a trip through Ecuador and planned to return to Argentina on February 25, 2016. However, after being robbed of their money, they accepted assist from a group of locals who ultimately drugged them, attempted sexual assault and fatally beat them following a struggle. The details of the crime shocked Argentina and Ecuador, prompting a massive investigation and calls for justice.
A Dream Trip Turned Nightmare
The journey began on January 10, 2016, when Marina, María José, and two friends, Sofía Sarmiento and Agustina Cano, set off from Mendoza, Argentina, with plans to explore Chile, Peru, and Ecuador. After weeks of enjoying the landscapes of South America, Sofía and Agustina returned to Argentina in mid-February due to personal commitments. Marina and María José decided to extend their stay in Montañita, a coastal town known for its bohemian atmosphere and surfing beaches. Infobae details how the trip, initially filled with excitement and anticipation, took a dark turn.
Their plans were derailed when they were robbed of the funds intended for their return journey. Desperate for a quick solution to reach Guayaquil, they accepted an offer of lodging from a local man known as “El Rojo.” This decision proved fatal, marking the last time they were seen alive.
The Macabre Discovery
Days of anguish followed, as families in Argentina desperately sought information. A widespread media campaign fueled by their families’ pleas for answers intensified the pressure on authorities. On February 26, 2016, a fisherman discovered the body of María José Coni, known as “Majo,” wrapped in plastic bags and adhesive tape in a wooded area near the beach.
Two days later, just 40 meters away, the remains of Marina Menegazzo were found in similar condition. Autopsies revealed the brutality of the attack: María José died from a severe head trauma, with multiple fractures and defensive wounds indicating a struggle against sexual assault. Marina Menegazzo died from blood loss after sustaining six stab wounds to the neck that severed her spinal cord. The violence of the crime sparked widespread condemnation and demands for swift justice.
Justice Served, But Grief Remains
The double femicide prompted a swift response from Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa, who pledged a full investigation. The Ecuadorian justice system acted quickly, and in August 2016, Alberto Segundo Mina Ponce, identified as the primary perpetrator, and Aurelio Eduardo “El Rojo” Rodríguez, his accomplice, were sentenced to 40 years in prison. Wikipedia reports that José Luis Pérez Castro, considered an accomplice due to his DNA being found at the crime scene, was also convicted in September 2017 and received a life sentence.
“Neither 40 nor 100 years will bring my daughter back, nor will they restore the joy to my other children and our family, but at least justice has been served,” Gladys Steffani, María José’s mother, said after the conclusion of the trials, as reported by Agencia Noticias Argentinas. Ten years later, the memory of the two young women from Mendoza endures, serving as a somber reminder of the dangers that can lurk beneath the surface of even the most idyllic destinations.
The case also ignited a broader conversation about the harassment women face while traveling and the often-unfair scrutiny they endure when venturing out alone, even when traveling in pairs. Social media users at the time pointed out the double standard, noting that similar commentary would not be directed towards men traveling together.
The tragedy in Montañita serves as a chilling example of the risks faced by travelers, particularly young women, and underscores the importance of vigilance and safety precautions while exploring unfamiliar places. As the ten-year anniversary passes, the families of Marina Menegazzo and María José Coni continue to seek closure and advocate for greater awareness of the dangers that exist even in seemingly safe environments.
Authorities in Ecuador continue to monitor the individuals convicted in the case, and there are no current reports of pending appeals or parole considerations. The focus remains on ensuring the sentences are fully served and that the memory of Marina and María José is honored.
If you or someone you know has been affected by violent crime, resources are available. You can reach the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit their website at https://www.thehotline.org/. For international support, please consult your local resources.
Share your thoughts and memories of Marina and María José in the comments below. Let’s preserve their stories alive and continue to advocate for safer travel for all.
