Who was businessman Chicão, founder of Grupo São Pedro found dead in Manaus

Businessman Francisco Helder de Oliveira Peixoto was 74 years old. — Photo: Reproduction/Social Networks

Businessman Francisco Helder de Oliveira Peixoto, known as Chicão, was found dead on Sunday (8), in Manaus. Over the course of forty years, he helped write the history of agriculture in the state by founding the São Pedro Group and becoming the main producer and distributor of eggs in Amazonas.

Chicão was born in Itacoatiara, in the interior of Amazonas. He graduated in Civil Engineering from the former University of Amazonas (UA), and completed a postgraduate degree in Rural Administration from Fundação Getúlio Vargas.

In 1986, after more than 15 years of experience in rural activity, alongside his father, at the former Granja Santa Marta, he began activities at Fazenda São Pedro. He currently held the position of CEO of the São Pedro Group.

He became one of the main entrepreneurs in the sector in the state and was honored, in 2022, with the Ruy Araújo medal, the highest award granted by the Legislative Assembly of the State of Amazonas (Aleam).

Francisco leaves behind his wife, to whom he had been married for around 50 years, and four children.

The businessman's death also generated commotion among representatives of the business sector. The Amazonas Commercial Association (ACA) expressed regret over the death and highlighted the importance of the work done by Francisco over the years for Amazonas.

"His pioneering career boosted agribusiness and the economy of our state. We deeply regret this loss and express our condolences to his family, friends and collaborators."

Death is investigated

Chicão's death was confirmed by the São Pedro Group, which brings together more than ten companies in the food and beverage production sector, founded by Francisco four decades ago. The cause of death was not disclosed.

"It is with deep regret that Grupo São Pedro announces the death of its founder and CEO. At this time of immense pain, we express our most sincere condolences to his family, friends and all employees who had the privilege of sharing his coexistence and teachings", said the company in a statement.

According to preliminary information, Chicão's body was found on the company's premises, located on the BR-174 highway. Agents from the Military Police and the Legal Medical Institute (IML) were at the scene.

The Amazonas Civil Police reported that the circumstances of the death are being investigated by the Specialized Homicide and Kidnapping Police Station (DEHS).

Until the most recent update of this report, information about the businessman's wake had not been released.