Tragedy in Praia Grande: retired elderly man falls from the 15th floor and dies while installing Christmas decorations
José Cavalari Lemes, aged 68, died on Tuesday morning (18) after falling from the 15th floor of a building in the Vila Tupi neighborhood, in Praia Grande, on the coast of São Paulo. The retiree lost his balance while installing Natal lights on the balcony of the apartment where he lived with his wife. Serviço of Atendimento Móvel of Urgência (Samu) confirmed the death at the scene.
The victim had moved to the coast of São Paulo around six months ago, after ending his career as a salesman at Santo André, on ABC Paulista. José was a native of Paraná and left behind a wife, three children and two grandchildren.
The wake and burial took place on Wednesday (19), at 5pm, at Cemitério Memorial Santo André.
Circumstances of the accident
The wife reported to Polícia Militar that the couple was preparing to leave the house. Antes, José went to the balcony to put up the Christmas decorations.
She heard a noise, called for her husband and didn’t find him in the apartment. Ao looked at the common area of the condominium and saw the body lying down.
Police officers from the 45th Batalhão of Polícia Militar of Interior confirmed that it was a residential accident. Forensics were called to examine the scene and remove the body from the Instituto Médico Legal.
Victim profile
José Cavalari Lemes was described by his daughter Renata Paschoal as a happy person and very close to his family. The couple celebrated 45 years of marriage.
The move to Praia Grande occurred shortly after retirement. The goal was to enjoy free time by the sea.
Renata highlighted that her father loved bringing his children and grandchildren together. The family considers the loss irreparable.
Police record and procedures
Secretaria of Segurança Pública of São Paulo registered the case as accidental death/suspicious death. The occurrence was recorded in Central of Polícia Judiciária of Praia Grande.
There was no evidence of crime, according to the PM’s initial investigation. The IML report must confirm the official cause of death.
The removal of the body followed the usual protocols for accidents at height.
Natal decoration and height risks
The installation of lights on balconies and windows increases at the end of the year across the country. Especialistas advise the use of personal protective equipment when working above two meters.
Condominiums usually require prior notice to the administration for external services. Muitos residents choose qualified professionals to avoid accidents.
Similar cases have already been recorded in other cities during the assembly of Christmas decorations.
Fight on ABC Paulista
Friends and former co-workers at Santo André expressed their condolences on social media. José was known for his good humor in a professional environment.
The family received support from relatives who traveled from Paraná to the wake. The burial brought together dozens of people at the ABC cemetery.
The daughter thanked her for the messages of affection received since the incident.
Recommended security measures
- Check the fixation of supports before climbing on chairs or stairs
- Use seat belts with adequate anchorage
- Avoid carrying out the service alone
- Hire specialized companies when access is difficult
- Respect condominium regulations for facade work
These guidelines are published annually by firefighters and Defesa Civil in the period leading up to Natal.
