Brazilian Fashion Student, 21, Dies After Alleged Fentanyl Poisoning in New York Dorm

Annabel Richter, a 21-year-old student from Brazil who moved to New York City to pursue her dream of working in fashion, died in March 2026 after an incident in her college dormitory that prosecutors say involved fentanyl and sexual assault.

Richter was studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). According to a federal indictment reported by PEOPLE, on March 18, 2026, 19-year-old Moises Freire allegedly encouraged Richter and her roommate to take a substance presented as cocaine. Prosecutors say both women lost consciousness shortly afterward.

The indictment alleges that Freire sexually assaulted one of the women while she was unconscious, while the other remained unconscious nearby. Richter later died on March 21 from acute fentanyl intoxication, according to the report. Her roommate survived after receiving emergency medical treatment.

Prosecutors further allege that Freire waited about 45 minutes before seeking help and initially told campus security that the women had consumed too much alcohol. Toxicology results reportedly showed fentanyl in both women’s systems, with no cocaine detected.

Freire and 18-year-old Brian Peralta Cabrera were charged in connection with the alleged drug distribution. Freire faces additional charges related to allegedly distributing a controlled substance with the intent to commit rape. The defendants had previously pleaded not guilty to earlier charges, according to the Associated Press.

Richter’s death has devastated her family and drawn attention to the dangers of substances sold under false pretenses. Friends remembered her as kind and bright, and said she had moved to New York to pursue her ambitions in fashion.

The allegations are part of an ongoing criminal case, and the charges against the defendants are not convictions.

Source:PEOPLE