Elio Darmon, a key witness in the probe into ex-minister Robert Boulin's 1979 death, was found dead on April 1 at his home in Brandérion, Morbihan. An inquiry into the causes of death has been launched, with an autopsy scheduled. His testimony had revived the case in 2022.
Elio Darmon was found lifeless on Wednesday, April 1, at his home in Brandérion, Morbihan, according to Lorient prosecutor Laetitia Mirande. A probe into the causes of death has been opened, with an autopsy set for next week. Forensic police attended the scene, and seals were placed on the house door and a car, as observed by AFP.
Darmon was a witness in the case of Robert Boulin's death, the labor minister under Raymond Barre, found drowned in October 1979 in a pond in Rambouillet forest. Investigators concluded suicide by drowning after barbiturates, linked to allegations over land in Ramatuelle. The family disputes this, claiming murder.
Darmon's testimony, given spontaneously in 2022 while elderly and ill, was heard in 2023 by the investigating judge. It identified a man who died in 1986 as a potential killer. His home was targeted by shots in late August, prompting an inquiry into armed violence.
Didier Seban, lawyer for Fabienne Boulin-Burgeat, hopes Versailles prosecutors will hand the file to Nanterre's unsolved crimes unit, noting other living witnesses. Fabienne Boulin-Burgeat called Darmon a «courageous witness who risked speaking out», voicing anger over elderly witnesses dying unheard by courts.
