The grieving mother of Nahomi Valentina Cittadini is seeking answers after her daughter was discovered deceased near Interstate 95 in northwest Miami-Dade. Police have confirmed that a person of interest is currently in custody related to the case.
Lorent Pion, 29, faces multiple charges stemming from a police pursuit in Miramar on Saturday. This chase occurred just hours after the body of 22-year-old Nahomi Valentina Cittadini was found in a grassy area adjacent to northbound I-95, north of Ives Dairy Road.
Nahomi Valentina Cittadini
Family photo of Nahomi Valentina Cittadini showcasing her bright smile, highlighting the tragic loss of a young life.
Miami-Dade Police Department reported receiving calls regarding a dispute between two individuals in the vicinity before Florida Highway Patrol officers discovered Cittadini’s body. Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of death but have stated that she was found unclothed.
“They never informed me that my daughter was found naked and discarded like an animal,” Maria Benitez, Cittadini’s mother, expressed in Spanish on Monday, conveying her profound distress and seeking justice for her daughter.
Benitez revealed that her daughter, a Deerfield Beach resident, had been celebrating a friend’s birthday in Miami shortly before her untimely death. She also indicated a prior relationship between her daughter and Pion, which was marred by allegations of stalking even after their separation.
“They were in a relationship, and he physically assaulted her, leading her to file a police report and obtain a restraining order,” Benitez stated. “He persistently appeared wherever she was. Months ago, when she visited New York, he also showed up. He would appear everywhere she went,” highlighting a pattern of concerning behavior from the person of interest.
The person of interest, Pion, was apprehended following a chase involving a black BMW on Interstate 75. The pursuit concluded with a crash on Miramar Parkway, involving several vehicles, including one with a baby occupant. Police reports indicate Pion attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended. Miramar Police Department arrested and booked him on charges including aggravated fleeing with injury or damage, failure to stop at the scene of a crash, and resisting an officer.
Lorent Pion
Mugshot of Lorent Pion from Broward Sheriff’s Office, identified as the person of interest in the death investigation.
While Pion has not yet been formally charged in connection to Cittadini’s death, he is being questioned by police regarding potential involvement. A judge has ordered Pion to be held without bond for a probation violation, as the investigation into Cittadini’s death continues.
Benitez is determined to seek justice for her daughter and has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses. “She was my baby, and her heart was immense. Everyone who knew her knew she was always joyful and kind to everyone,” she shared, remembering her daughter’s vibrant spirit and the devastating loss her family is enduring.
