Emotional Tribute to Rue d'Aubagne Victims
On November 5, 2024, the residents of Marseille gathered to pay tribute to the eight victims of the tragic building collapses on rue d'Aubagne, which occurred six years prior. The ceremony, marked by deep emotion and a strong demand for justice, took place at the site where the buildings once stood. As the bells of the nearest church tolled at 9:07 a.m., the exact time of the tragedy, hundreds of residents, including family members of the victims, observed a long moment of silence. Many carried torches and flowers, with poignant portraits of the deceased held close.
Among the attendees were the mothers of victims Julien Lalonde and Simona Carpignano, who expressed their grief and hope for justice. Julien's mother emphasized the need for dignity and respect in housing, urging authorities to prioritize the safety of residents over profit. The emotional atmosphere was heightened by the lamentations of Chérif Zemar's mother, who traveled from Algeria to attend the ceremony.
Anticipation of Justice Ahead of Trial
The memorial was particularly poignant as it preceded the opening of a trial set to begin two days later, involving 16 defendants, including co-owners of the collapsed buildings and a former assistant to the then-mayor, Jean-Claude Gaudin. Families of the victims are hopeful that the trial will bring accountability and prevent future tragedies related to substandard housing. Maria Carpignano, Simona's mother, expressed confidence in the judicial process, stating, "We await this trial with great hope. We know that it will not be easy, but we are very confident in justice."
The trial is seen as a critical moment not just for the families of the victims but also for the wider issue of inadequate housing in Marseille, where approximately 40,000 residents live in slums. Participants in the ceremony called for systemic change and accountability from those responsible for housing safety.
A Call for Change in Housing Standards
The tragedy of rue d'Aubagne has sparked a broader conversation about housing conditions in Marseille. Many attendees at the memorial voiced their frustrations about the negligence that led to the collapse, with some calling for stricter regulations on landlords and property owners. "When you rent an apartment, don't just think about money," pleaded Julien Lalonde's mother, highlighting the need for compassion and responsibility in housing.
Marseille's current mayor, Benoît Payan, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the victims' families during the upcoming trial and emphasized the city's responsibility to address poor housing conditions. "We will not forget and we will continue to stand by their side," he stated, aiming to make the city a civil party in the trial. The community's resilience and demand for justice remain strong, as they continue to remember those lost and fight for a future where no one has to suffer due to inadequate living conditions.
