Overview
- Lyhanna Bernard, who disappeared after leaving school on May 29, was last seen getting into a man’s car in Fleurance and investigators used CCTV and witness statements to identify and detain the suspect the next day.
- Authorities say a body found on a farm near Puycasquier on Thursday appears to be Lyhanna’s and forensic work including autopsy and DNA tests is under way to confirm identity and cause of death.
- The main suspect, 41-year-old Jérôme Barella, has been formally charged with kidnapping and illegal detention and is held in custody; he worked at the farm where the remains were found.
- Reporting shows at least five prior complaints or inquiries dating back to 2017 involving alleged sexual offences by the suspect and family members say some recent complaints were not promptly investigated.
- President Macron and senior ministers demanded urgent answers and ordered the review that could consolidate multiple files and examine policing and prosecutorial decisions with possible institutional or individual accountability to follow.