SNCF Acquitted in Neko Case: The Tragic Death of a Cat at Montparnasse Station
In a highly publicized case that stirred emotions across France, the Paris Court of Appeal acquitted the SNCF, the French national railway company, on November 8, 2024, regarding the tragic death of a cat named Neko. This decision comes nearly two years after the incident, which occurred on January 2, 2023, at Montparnasse station. Neko, a four-year-old feline, escaped from the bag of its owners, Georgia and her daughter Melaïna, just moments before their train was scheduled to depart. Despite frantic attempts to alert the train controllers to stop the train, Neko was tragically struck by the train shortly after it left the station.
The case drew significant attention on social media and prompted a civil suit from the 30 Million Friends Foundation, which accused the SNCF of negligence and cruelty. Initially, in July 2023, the SNCF was found guilty of negligence and fined 1,000 euros by the Paris police court. However, the railway company appealed this ruling, fearing that it could set a precedent that would complicate operations and increase delays in the future.
During the appeal hearing, the prosecution argued for acquittal, stating that it was impossible to retrieve Neko in time and that the train's departure did not directly cause the cat's death. Ultimately, the Court of Appeal sided with the prosecution, leading to the SNCF's acquittal.
Emotional Aftermath and Public Reaction
The incident sparked outrage among animal rights advocates and the public, leading to protests organized by Melaïna and her mother outside train stations, including a notable rally in Bordeaux. The family's emotional plea for accountability highlighted a perceived lack of empathy from the SNCF during the incident, as they felt their desperate attempts to save Neko were ignored. Melaïna's heartfelt statements about the trauma of witnessing her pet's death resonated with many, drawing attention to the need for better protocols in handling such emergencies at train stations.
The Neko case has opened discussions on animal welfare and the responsibilities of transport companies in ensuring the safety of pets traveling with their owners. As the public continues to react to this case, it remains a poignant reminder of the bond between humans and their pets, and the importance of compassion in crisis situations.
