Former paramedic’s ex-wife and champion athlete detained in connection with his murder

A former wife of the slain Panevėžys paramedic Mantas Sadauskas has been detained as a suspect in his murder, Lithuanian public broadcaster LRT reports. The woman, identified by local media as Justina Gaigalaitė, is a decorated fitness and bodybuilding athlete who won multiple European titles in 2025.

Police confirmed three individuals are now in custody in connection with the case, which has shocked Lithuania since the paramedic’s body was discovered on Tuesday. Gaigalaitė had previously won the “Athletic” category at the WFF European Bodybuilding Championship in Warsaw, where she was also named the event’s overall best athlete. That same year, she claimed another victory in Prague.

“This is a very high-level competition—only the best compete here,” Gaigalaitė told local media after her Warsaw win. “You feel that responsibility right up to the stage—not just for yourself, but for your country.” She had spoken openly about ambitions to compete in the NABBA Universe and World Championships, declaring, “I know I can do more—I want to prove it to myself and everyone.”

Prosecutors state the investigation involves three alleged crimes: unlawful deprivation of liberty, premeditated murder, and illegal possession of firearms. The paramedic’s body was found buried on a property in Mileškūnai village, Panevėžys district, following an extensive search. Police confirmed two of the three detained have prior convictions, including one for drug-related offenses and another for drunk driving.

The case began after Sadauskas, a 29-year-old emergency medical responder, was reported missing. His abandoned vehicle was later located, but no immediate trace of him was found. The discovery of his body on Tuesday evening prompted the arrests.