Autopsy results for 11-year-old Lyhanna, found dead on June 4 in the Gers, were released on Thursday, June 18. They confirm the schoolgirl was raped before being killed.
The full autopsy results were shared with AFP by a source close to the case. Lyhanna’s family responded through their lawyer, Me François Roujou de Boubée, who stated: « Face au pire pouvant arriver à une enfant et à des parents, leur colère n’a d’égal que leur dégoût. La famille demande que son intimité et sa vie privée soient respectées. Aucun autre commentaire ne sera fait. »
The main suspect, Jérôme Barella, 41, remains charged with “enlèvement” and “séquestration de mineure de 15 ans.” He is held in provisional detention at Mont-de-Marsan prison, in isolation.
No further official statement has been issued by the Agen prosecutor’s office since June 5. The cause of death and evidence of sexual violence could lead to upgraded charges.
