A Mother's Heartbreak: Reflections on Lola's Tragic Death
Two years have passed since the devastating murder of 12-year-old Lola, a case that has left a profound impact on France. Delphine Daviet-Ropital, Lola's mother, has opened up for the first time about her grief and struggles in a recent interview with Le Figaro. On October 14, 2022, Lola's body was found in a trunk in the 19th arrondissement of Paris, after she had vanished while walking home from school. The main suspect, Dahbia Benkired, is set to stand trial in 2025 for the heinous crimes of murder and rape with acts of torture against a minor under 15.
Delphine, still on sick leave, shared the emotional toll of her daughter's death and the subsequent loss of her partner, Johan Daviet, who succumbed to health issues exacerbated by alcohol problems in February 2024. "My life will always be complicated," she expressed, highlighting the ongoing struggle to cope with her reality. Her son, Thibault, has been a source of strength for her, as she admits, "If my son wasn't here, I wouldn't be here anymore. He helps me hold on."
Reflecting on her relationship with Lola, Delphine described her daughter as a vibrant and sociable child, full of life and energy. Despite the pain, she cherishes the memories of their close bond, often reminiscing about Lola's spirited personality and the joy she brought to their lives. "I will always have this scar," Delphine said, acknowledging the lasting impact of the tragedy on her life.
As the trial approaches, Delphine is filled with questions about the motives behind the crime and hopes to find some closure through the legal proceedings. She expressed her anger over the circumstances surrounding Lola's murder, particularly the fact that the suspect was in France unlawfully at the time of the crime. "This lady destroyed everything. Everything I had: my daughter, my husband, our job... Everything was shattered," she lamented.
The Ongoing Fight for Justice and Awareness
The murder of Lola sparked national outrage and brought attention to issues surrounding crime and immigration policies in France. Delphine's poignant reflections serve as a reminder of the human cost of violence and the importance of seeking justice for victims. She emphasizes the need for societal change, stating, "These people have no place there. Unfortunately, we are powerless. We can't do anything about all these tragedies. This is France..."
As the community continues to mourn Lola's loss, Delphine's courage in sharing her story sheds light on the long-lasting effects of such tragedies on families and the fight for justice that continues in the wake of unimaginable loss.
