Investigators in Versailles have identified a key suspect in the murder of 11-year-old Louise, linking a 23-year-old man’s DNA to her body. Arrested after police interrogations, he faces charges of murdering a minor. Neighbors recognized him from surveillance footage, and a friend recalled seeing Louise with him before her death. Following the arrest, three individuals related to the suspect were detained for failing to report the crime. The investigation continues as DNA evidence and Louise’s phone are analyzed.
Investigation Reveals Key Suspect in Louise’s Tragic Case
In a heartbreaking turn of events, investigators from the organized and specialized crime division in Versailles have identified a potential suspect in the murder of 11-year-old Louise. After several days filled with uncertainty and emotional turmoil, the public prosecutor of Évry, Grégoire Dulin, confirmed on February 11 that the 23-year-old man arrested earlier had his DNA linked to the young victim’s body.
How the Arrest Unfolded
Following a series of police interrogations that resulted in previous releases without charges, authorities apprehended the suspect in Épinay-sur-Orge on Monday evening. He now faces serious charges of ‘murder of a minor under 15 years old.’ Neighbors played a crucial role in identifying him, recognizing his distinct black puffer jacket and cap from surveillance footage that appeared to show him trailing Louise.
A friend of Louise also contributed vital information, recalling that she had seen Louise in the vicinity of Bois des Templiers, the very location where her body was later discovered, accompanied by a man in a dark puffer jacket.
In a further development, just hours after the arrest, three individuals connected to the suspect were taken into custody for ‘failure to report a crime.’ This group included his mother, father, and girlfriend, as confirmed by the prosecutor.
Evidence and Ongoing Investigations
Public prosecutor Grégoire Dulin revealed on Tuesday that the suspect’s DNA was located on the victim’s hands, raising more questions about the circumstances of her death. Investigators are currently analyzing Louise’s phone, discovered near her remains, hoping it will shed light on her final moments.
Reports suggest that the suspect has a history of minor offenses and is known to law enforcement. Neighbors described his family as seemingly ordinary, expressing shock at their involvement in such a tragic case. Some even mentioned that the suspect’s family and Louise’s family were acquainted, though this remains unverified.
During his initial hours in custody, the suspect denied any wrongdoing. However, investigators noted inconsistencies in his alibi concerning the day Louise disappeared, February 7. As the investigation continues, the murder weapon and the suspect’s jacket remain elusive, with the prosecutor previously disclosing that the autopsy revealed multiple sharp-force injuries to the victim.
Authorities announced that the police custody period for the suspect and his relatives would extend as ongoing hearings and investigations take place.