The parents of Albanian victim Ilaria Sula have revealed new and deeply emotional details about her murder in Italy, offering a powerful testimony months after the crime that shocked the Albanian and Balkan communities.
In an appearance on the Italian television program “Verissimo,” Gëzime and Flamur Sula spoke about the last time they communicated with their 22-year-old daughter. March 25, 2025, remains the final day they heard from Ilaria, which they believe is also the day she was killed by her former partner, Mark Antony Samson.
According to their account, the suspect had carefully planned the crime and attempted to mislead the family in the days following her disappearance. He reportedly claimed he had not seen Ilaria for a month after their breakup and denied any involvement. In a disturbing detail shared by the parents, he even swore on his mother’s grave—despite her being alive—insisting he would never harm Ilaria.
The victim’s body was discovered on April 2, 2025, hidden inside a suitcase that had been thrown into a ravine. Investigations revealed that Samson had attempted to stage her disappearance to make it appear voluntary. The case took another turn when his mother was found to have assisted in cleaning the crime scene and hiding the body. She later accepted a two-year prison sentence for her role.
Gëzime Sula also shared heartbreaking personal moments, recalling how she prepared her daughter for burial. She described wanting to care for her one last time, dressing her in a “princess dress” as a final tribute. The family has firmly refused any apology from those involved, stating that their pain is immeasurable and cannot be forgiven.
The case has drawn significant attention in Italy, Albania, Kosovo, and across the Balkans, highlighting issues of violence against women and the devastating impact on families left behind.