Fighting For Aida: A Sister’s Battle For Justice After The Rose Petal Murder
This is the sad tale of Christina Parcell, a mother who was killed in 2021 in one of the most vicious murders that would eventually be referred to as the “Rose Petal Murder.” Now her sister Lutina “Tina” Parcell is at the center of a battle for justice and custody for Mello’s daughter, Aida Mello.
Tina remained determined in the face of fresh allegations and legal turns. This article deconstructs the case, from Tina’s family battles and courtroom drama to chilling custody disputes and her ongoing fight against what she insists are unfounded accusations. It is a tale of family, loss, and the relentless desire for justice.
The Murder That Shook South Carolina
Christina Parcell was discovered slain in her residence on October 13, 2021. She had more than 30 stab wounds, and rose petals were strewn around her body. Tina Parcell, her sister, was her roommate and was devastated. The case, known as the “Rose Petal Murder,” rattled the nearby Greer, S.C., community and left lasting scars.
Sisters Meet Again After Years Apart
After Christina started dating John Mello in 2008, she and Tina grew apart. She had ceased contact for several years, but the sisters reconciled in 2014. By that point, Christina had a daughter, Aida, with Mello. The sisters later moved in together to try to patch things up and help care for their shared mother, who had cancer.
Christina’s Custody Fight with John Mello
Christina Mello and John Mello separated in 2015 and entered a raucous battle over custody. In 2020, Mello took Aida to Italy against Christina’s will. Christina flew out to fight for her rights, supported by Tina. The court would later order Aida’s return, but the custody battle dragged on until Christina was murdered.
Tina’s Testimony At The Trial Of Zachary Hughes
Zachary Hughes was tried and found guilty of the murder of Christina in February 2025. He said that he murdered her because he was afraid for APSHARAIDA’S welfare as a result of these allegations being made by JOHN MELLO. Tina took the stand and described Christina as a “fantastic mother” and how the accusations ruined her life. Hughes was sent to prison for life.
John Mello Was Charged With Murder As Part Of The Conspiracy To Commit Murder
On the day Hughes was convicted, John Mello was taken into custody. He was charged with accessory before the fact and solicitation of a felony. Prosecutors believe he was involved in planning Christina’s murder. Tina, who brought her sister’s ashes to the court, called for justice and accountability for all those implicated.
Tina Struggles With Aida After Christina Dies
After Christina’s death, Tina filed to keep the custody case open and to take care of Aida. Limited visitation was awarded to her. But in March 2024, Aida made a disturbing allegation – that Tina secretly took photos of her as she got dressed. The accusation ended all overnight visits.
Tina Continues To Refuse The Claims And Stands Her Ground
Tina vehemently denied the charge. She said her home had cameras for security, but not in private spaces. She said it was this little girl who did not take a shower that night. She said she had given her phone over to be forensically analyzed, and it cleared her. No probable cause was found to support the charges.
Continued Concern About Witness Tampering
Tina thinks the accusation was a tactic to undercut her case and to disrupt her life with Aida. She also told investigators that she was afraid that John Mello had lured them into the situation to prevent her from seeing her niece. “The last person who did that to him was her sister, and she got killed,” she said.
Tina’s Quest: Justice For Christina And Care For Aida
Tina stays in Greer, fighting from the shadows for her sister’s justice, hoping, perhaps, to provide for her niece. She still attends court hearings, participates in the legal process, and keeps her sister’s memory alive. She wants to ensure that Aida is safe and that whoever’s responsible for this pays.
FAQs
Who was Christina Parcell?
Christina Parcell was a single mother and veterinary technician who was killed in 2021. Her case is called the ”Rose Petal Murder.”
And what became of her daughter, Aida Mello?
Following Christina’s death and John Mello’s arrest, Aida was placed in emergency protective custody. She is still under the state’s care.
Who is Tina Parcell?
Tina is Christina’s sister. She has campaigned for custody of Aida and justice for her sister’s murder.
Why was John Mello arrested?
John Mello was charged in connection with the conspiracy to plan Christina’s murder. He faced being charged with accessory before the fact and solicitation to commit a felony.
Was Tina’s accusations over indecent behavior confirmed to be true?
Nope, no basis for it. However, investigations did find no probable cause that Tina took lewd photos of her niece.
Final Words
Tina Parcell’s story is one of heartbreak, resilience, and bravery. In the face of a tragedy, she fought back. She is not only looking for justice for her slain sister, but she is also trying to protect and take care of the young girl left behind.
But with the legal struggles ongoing, Tina is defiant, vowing to tell the truth and stand up for what she believes is right. Her odyssey is a testament to the power of persistence, love, and sticking up for your family no matter how hard the road might be.
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