The glamorous world of social media influencer Stefanie Pieper has been tragically cut short after the 31-year-old was found dead in a Slovenian forest. The Austrian makeup artist, who boasted nearly 50,000 Instagram followers, was reported missing after failing to attend a photoshoot, sparking an international investigation.
The Disappearance and Final Hours
Stefanie Pieper's last known movements began on November 23 when she returned home to Graz, Styria, from a Christmas party. A friend dropped her off at her flat in a taxi, after which she entered her building to later take her dog for a walk.
After reassuring friends she was safe, the situation turned ominous. Police revealed that Pieper sent alarming WhatsApp messages describing a "creep in the stairwell" of her building, whom she characterised as a dark figure.
Neighbours subsequently reported hearing an argument in the building after witnessing her former partner, identified only as Peter M, enter the premises. When Pieper failed to appear for a scheduled photoshoot, her concerned family officially reported her missing.
The Investigation and Arrests
The investigation quickly led authorities to Slovenia, where Peter M was arrested after being found near his own burning Volkswagen Golf. Described locally as a part-time security guard and unsuccessful poker player, he had been in an on-and-off relationship with the influencer.
According to Styrian Police, Peter M had travelled to Slovenia several times in the car and could not be contacted by investigators prior to his discovery. Two other people have since been arrested in connection with the case.
A Tragic Discovery
The most harrowing details emerged after the arrest. Local news outlets allege that Peter M confessed to killing Stefanie Pieper and subsequently led investigators to a forest in Slovenia.
There, in a grim discovery, police found Pieper's body stuffed into a suitcase. The case has sent shockwaves through the influencer's large online community and raised serious questions about domestic violence and personal safety.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the full sequence of events that led to the untimely death of the talented makeup artist and singer, whose vibrant social media presence showcased both her professional work and impressive singing ability to her tens of thousands of followers.
