Nora Dalmasso was tragically murdered on Saturday, November 25, 2006, in Río Cuarto, Córdoba. In a surprising turn of events in 2022, new evidence has emerged, placing Roberto Bárzola, known as “el parquetista,” back in the spotlight as a prime suspect in her murder.
Bárzola, who was 25 at the time of the killing, was working at Dalmasso’s home when the crime occurred. Throughout the investigation, he provided six statements, but as early as 2007, Marcelo Brito, the long-time lawyer for Dalmasso’s husband, Marcelo Macarrón, had identified Bárzola as a suspect and requested DNA testing, which prosecutors initially declined.
Bárzola was previously noted by Dalmasso’s mother, Delia “Nené” Grassi, as someone with whom her daughter had conflicts. During the trial against Macarrón, he minimized the dispute with Dalmasso, citing a minor issue about dust. Following Macarrón’s acquittal, prosecutor Pablo Jávega insisted on re-examining the evidence, which led to the comparison of DNA from 45 individuals. In December 2022, the provincial Public Ministry revealed that Bárzola’s DNA matched genetic evidence found on Dalmasso’s robe and on the belt used to strangle her.
Key contradictions in Bárzola’s statements have now raised suspicions further. Initially, he claimed it was raining heavily that day and noted that he rang the doorbell twice but received no answer. He later stated that he did not actually ring the doorbell because he did not want to be obligated to work, creating inconsistencies in his account. In the trial, he admitted to lying to authorities about his whereabouts that day, suggesting he was at a different location.
With new DNA findings placing Bárzola at the crime scene, he has become the primary suspect in the brutal murder of Dalmasso. As the legal battle progresses, prosecutors and the victim’s family are committed to seeking justice and ensuring that the case does not go unresolved, highlighting a renewed hope for accountability in this long-standing case.