Man Charged in Isère Femicide Case After Partner's Body Found Burned in Car

A 39-year-old man has been formally charged with the homicide of his partner, Zaïa Binet, a 27-year-old caregiver, whose charred body was discovered in a vehicle in Saint-Marcel-Bel-Accueil, Isère. The tragic case came to light on November 22 when authorities found Binet's burned remains in the car, prompting a criminal investigation. Grenoble prosecutor Étienne Manteaux disclosed that the suspect admitted to a violent argument where he pushed Binet, causing a serious head injury that led to her death. Although the man claimed he did not intend to kill her, forensic examinations revealed Binet’s skull was partially fractured, and the autopsy confirmed she died before the car was set on fire, as she had not inhaled smoke.

In an attempt to conceal his involvement, the suspect sent messages from Binet’s phone to her friends and cleaned up evidence, including blood and her clothes, before placing her body in the passenger seat and setting the vehicle ablaze to simulate a suicide. Prosecutor Manteaux indicated that "romantic disappointment" was likely the motive behind the killing. The suspect has a history of minor offenses.

This femicide highlights a disturbing national trend, with over three women becoming victims of femicide or attempted femicide daily in France, according to the 2024 data from the inter-ministerial mission for the protection of women. The case intensifies the call for awareness and action against violence targeting women, particularly in the lead-up to the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25.

Zaïa Binet had reportedly expressed reluctance to commit to a long-term relationship, which might have triggered the fatal confrontation. The investigation continues as authorities seek further insights into the circumstances surrounding the crime and the suspect's intent.