On Sunday, March 2, 2025, Diego, the youngest son of the singer Lio, was found dead near Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle. He was 21 years old. Thus, the press mentions a possible voluntary self-immolation, reported by our colleagues from Paris Match. This tragedy evokes strong emotions in the news, due to Lio‘s fame and the psychological impact that this act reveals.
A Sudden Disappearance
The previous weekend, Lio had reported her son’s disappearance to the authorities. Diego, son of Lio, had left the family home with his mother’s bank card. Additionally, he had taken his personal vehicle. This worrying situation mobilized the siblings and investigators, who already feared an alarming scenario.
The Circumstances of the Tragedy
The initial findings of the investigation indicate that Diego stopped at a gas station near the airport. There, he allegedly filled a jerrycan with gasoline. Then, he reportedly doused himself with this flammable liquid. His body was found on the road of Noyer du Chat, on the edge of the airport premises. However, detectives are still trying to understand the deep reasons behind this tragic act.
A Large and Publicized Family
Lio, whose real name is Vanda Maria Ribeiro Furtado Tavares de Vasconcelos, is an artist of Portuguese origin who grew up in Belgium. Thus, she gained fame in the 1980s with pop hits like Banana Split. Her success continued over the decades. Meanwhile, she raised six children. This family has often attracted the interest of the public and the celebrity press.
Among her children, Igor Tikovoï, son of Lio, made a name for himself as a professional poker player in Las Vegas. His career contrasts with that of Diego, son of Lio, whose tragic fate marks a painful turning point for the singer.
Lio’s Six Children
- Nubia, born in 1987 and daughter of Michel Esteban, photographer and graphic designer
- Igor Tikovoï, son of Lio, born in 1993 and professional poker player in Las Vegas
- Esmeralda, born in 1995, discreet about her father’s identity
- The twins Garance and Léa, born in 1999, from a relationship marked by domestic violence
- Diego, son of Lio, born in 2003 and the youngest of the siblings, whose father was never revealed
A Resolutely Committed Mother
Despite financial setbacks and tumultuous relationships, Lio has always remained close to her children. She invested in their education while maintaining her musical and media career. In 2013, she confided to Paris Match: “I didn’t know how to protect my children.” Thus, she expressed her deep regret over the family difficulties she had to overcome.
Besides her musical career, Lio has also made her mark in cinema and television, notably thanks to her friendship with Michel Blanc. Their on-screen and off-screen camaraderie has often been mentioned in the media, reinforcing the image of a multifaceted artist.
The Siblings’ Cry for Help
After the disappearance of Diego, son of Lio, his sister Esmeralda made an appeal on social media. She highlighted her brother’s “severe psychological distress.” Moreover, she encouraged anyone with any clue to contact the authorities. However, this mobilization did not prevent the tragedy, leaving the family in shock.
An Investigation Under the Spotlight
The judicial police continue to explore all leads. Investigators are trying to understand if Diego had shared his anxieties with those around him. They are also examining the video footage from the gas station. Thus, they hope to meticulously trace the final moments leading up to his irreversible act.
Support and Prevention
This tragedy highlights the crucial issue of mental health among young adults. In France, 3114 is the national suicide prevention number, free and available 24/7. Thus, anyone in crisis or any concerned family can find a listening ear there. Professionals are trained to provide concrete support and, if necessary, trigger emergency interventions.
Between Grief and Incomprehension
Grief strikes Lio and her loved ones cruelly. They gather in the utmost discretion, supported by friends and fans sensitive to this family tragedy. No superlative can describe a mother’s despair in the face of losing her child. Moreover, this tragedy raises questions about the lack of guidance and support that can exist in certain situations.
The death of Diego, son of Lio, continues to evoke strong emotions in the media and on the Internet. This ordeal demonstrates the fragility of mental health, especially when distress remains invisible. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of a support network capable of responding quickly to any warning signs. Authorities now await the results of the investigation to shed light on Diego‘s motivations. Meanwhile, Lio‘s family calls for respect for their privacy and emphasizes the need to open a dialogue about distress. In this dramatic context, any gesture of solidarity can help break the isolation and prevent similar tragedies.
