Model Luciana Curtis and Family Held Hostage for 12 Hours in Brazil

New York: Luciana Curtis, a renowned New York-based model, her husband Henrique Gendre, and their child were tragically abducted at gunpoint and held hostage for 12 hours in Brazil, according to reports.

Curtis, the daughter of British businessman Malcolm Leo Curtis and a Brazilian teacher, was visiting São Paulo with her family when the terrifying incident took place. The family was forced at gunpoint to enter their own vehicle after dining at a restaurant on Wednesday night. A gang of armed men then took them to a remote shack in Brasilândia, where they were held captive.

The model, born in Brazil and currently residing in New York, frequently travels between São Paulo and London. While being held hostage, the criminals stole money from the bank accounts of both Curtis and her husband.

The family’s disappearance raised alarm when their eldest child, who had stayed behind at home, alerted relatives to their absence. Authorities were notified, and specialist police teams launched a search for the family.

According to police reports, the gang abandoned the family on Thursday after realizing they were being pursued, and fled the scene. The family was found safe and unharmed, having called for help from locals during their captivity.

Curtis, known for her appearances on the covers of Marie Claire and Cosmopolitan, has a successful modeling career, having worked with major brands such as Harrods, H&M, and Victoria’s Secret. She was also crowned the Brazilian Supermodel of the World in 1993.

The family’s harrowing ordeal ended with their safe release, and authorities have confirmed that they are doing well.