Silent March in Memory of Lilian Dejean
A silent march is set to take place this Sunday in Grenoble at midday, honoring the memory of Lilian Dejean, a beloved city employee who tragically lost his life a week ago. The procession will commence from Boulevard Jean Pain, the site of the incident, and will proceed to the Olympic Village neighborhood, where Dejean grew up, making a significant detour to the urban cleaning offices where he dedicated his work. The event is organized by Dejean's family, with expectations of a large turnout, including attendance from Mayor Éric Piolle and other local officials. A family friend remarked, "There will be a lot of people," highlighting the community's support for the grieving family.
The Tragic Incident
Lilian Dejean, aged 49, was shot in the chest on September 8 while attempting to prevent a man from fleeing the scene of a traffic accident. The assailant, driving a powerful rental car registered in Poland, is still on the run. Dejean succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident, prompting an outpouring of grief from colleagues and residents, who have paid vibrant tributes to him in the days following his death. His body has been returned to his family and is scheduled for burial in Guadeloupe on Wednesday.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Response
The police have identified the alleged murderer, a 25-year-old man whose identification was found in the abandoned vehicle. He is currently being actively sought by law enforcement, with several searches conducted in the Grenoble suburbs. A judicial investigation has been launched for various charges, including murder of a public service worker and possession of illegal weapons. The suspect has a history of criminal activity, including theft, violence, and drug trafficking. This tragedy unfolds amidst rising tensions in Grenoble, with authorities reporting at least 18 incidents of gun violence this year, leading to concerns over gang-related violence.
- The community's reaction to Lilian Dejean's death reflects a broader concern regarding public safety and rising violence in Grenoble. Local authorities are under pressure to address the increasing incidents of violence, which have been linked to drug trafficking and gang warfare. Residents are calling for more effective measures to ensure safety and prevent such tragedies in the future.
