Final Text of Juliana Marins Before Tragic Volcano Fall

Twenty-six-year-old Juliana Marins, a Brazilian publicist and adventurous traveler, was on a solo journey through Southeast Asia when she tragically fell off a cliff on Mount Rinjani’s volcano in Indonesia on June 21.

Drone footage showed her alive but trapped on a ledge roughly 500 metres below the crater rim, sparking an intense rescue mission lasting four days. Unfortunately, she was found deceased on June 24.

The Heartbreaking Final Text

Before setting out, Juliana sent a poignant message to her mother: “Mami, I love you so much. I was heartbroken when we said goodbye.” She reassured her family that she wasn’t afraid and emphasized the values instilled in her, crediting her mother for teaching her to take bold risks. The full text read as a declaration of love and determination to pursue her dreams, though ultimately tinged with tragic irony.

Rescue Challenges and Controversy

Rescue teams faced extreme obstacles in the volcano: thick fog, unstable terrain, and treacherous cliffs forced them to pull back multiple times. Though drone operators and hikers reported hearing her voice, rescue crews couldn’t reach her in time. Volunteers and family members later accused local authorities of mishandling the operation—allegedly withholding supplies and issuing conflicting statements about conditions on the mountain.

Autopsy Reveals Cause, Questions Remain

A Bali autopsy confirmed Juliana died within 20 minutes of blunt-force injuries sustained in her fall. This matched extensive fractures and internal bleeding consistent with a second fall from higher up in the crater. No evidence of hypothermia or starvation was found. However, the family has demanded a second autopsy in Brazil due to discrepancies between the forensic findings and the drone footage, suggesting she may have survived longer.

Government Response and Global Mourning

Brazil’s federal government stepped in to support repatriation and demanded accountability. A decree was fast-tracked to ensure overseas repatriation costs are covered by the Brazilian state. Brazilian footballer Alexandre Pato personally offered to finance the return of her remains, symbolizing public solidarity. In Indonesia, forestry and SAR authorities pledged to improve emergency response and strengthen safety at mountainous sites.

Legacy: A Call for Change

Juliana’s death has spotlighted the risks of under-resourced rescue operations in remote tourist destinations. Her family and supporters are pushing for international cooperation to enhance protocols, communication, and search-and-rescue capacity. Meanwhile, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the unpredictable fragility of life and the enduring strength of familial love.

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