A shocking incident unfolded at a hair salon in São Paulo, Brazil, when a client allegedly stabbed her hairdresser after expressing dissatisfaction with a haircut. The attack occurred on May 5 at the Casa Ferrare salon in the Barra Funda neighborhood.
Attack Caught on CCTV
Surveillance footage shows 27-year-old Lais Gabriela Barbosa da Cunha standing near hairstylist Eduardo Ferrari, 29, as he worked on another client. Without warning, Lais reached into her bag, pulled out a kitchen knife, and plunged it into Eduardo's back. The stylist recoiled in pain as staff and security intervened, preventing further violence.
Restraint and Arrest
Employees managed to restrain Lais and confiscate the weapon. Outside the salon, two men held her until police arrived. Eduardo, visibly shaken, stood nearby. Officers later detained Lais and seized the knife. A small puncture wound was visible on Eduardo's back, but he sustained only superficial injuries and underwent a forensic medical examination.
Background to the Incident
Lais had visited the salon on April 7 for a hair procedure involving highlights and texturizing. Initially, she appeared satisfied, even posting compliments online. However, days later, she began complaining about her hair, demanding a refund, and sending threatening messages via WhatsApp. One employee reported that Lais threatened to "set fire" to the stylist.
On May 5, Lais returned without an appointment and became angry when told no refund would be given. Security was called to remove her, but she pulled out the knife before they could act.
Suspect's Claims
In videos posted online, Lais accused Eduardo of using a razor-scissor to chop her hair, leaving her fringe looking like a cartoon character. She also claimed a "chemical cut" caused her hair to break due to chemical use. Salon staff denied these allegations.
Legal Proceedings
Lais admitted to stabbing Eduardo during an argument over the refund, according to São Paulo's Public Security Secretariat. The case is being treated as bodily injury, but Eduardo's team argues it should be attempted murder. The salon released a statement saying, "We cannot normalise or silence situations like this. Attempted murder is extremely serious and must be punished."
The salon temporarily suspended appointments, and the case has been sent to the Special Criminal Court for investigation.
