Two Violent Crime Investigations Unfold in France: Friend's Murder in Quimper and Serial Sexual Assault Charges in Évry

Recent violent crime cases in France include the fatal shooting of a retiree by her friend in Quimper and multiple rape charges against a murder suspect in Évry.

    Key details

  • • Josette Godfrin, 79, was shot dead by her 64-year-old friend in Quimper; suspect confessed immediately.
  • • Quimper prosecutor's office opened an intentional homicide investigation with autopsy pending.
  • • Owen L., accused of murdering 11-year-old Louise in 2025, also charged with raping two teenage girls in 2021 and 2023.
  • • Évry prosecutor confirmed an ongoing investigation into rape and sexual assaults on minors involving Owen L.

French authorities are currently investigating two distinct violent crimes occurring in early 2026, involving murder and sexual assault allegations.

In Quimper, a harrowing incident took place in the residential Hippodrome area where 79-year-old Josette Godfrin, known as "Josie," was fatally shot in the neck by her 64-year-old friend and landlady. The suspect called police immediately after the shooting at Godfrin's home on Avenue des Sports, confessing she "could no longer tolerate her friend." Law enforcement officials found a revolver near the victim and confirmed her death on arrival. The Quimper prosecutor's office has opened an intentional homicide investigation, now handled by the interdepartmental judicial police, with an autopsy pending to clarify the circumstances and motive behind the killing.

Meanwhile, in Évry, Owen L., who has been in custody since February 2025 for the murder of 11-year-old Louise, faces additional charges of raping two teenage girls in 2021 and 2023. The first victim was assaulted multiple times at Owen's family home when she was 15 and filed a complaint shortly after Louise's murder. The second victim, aged 16, alleged she was raped in May 2023 after meeting Owen through social media. The Évry public prosecutor confirmed these charges led to an investigation opened on May 14, 2025, concerning rape and sexual assault of minors over 15. Owen L. denies these accusations. His prior murder charge relates to fatally stabbing Louise after a confrontation and attempted robbery.

These cases highlight the ongoing judicial response to serious violent crimes in France, involving thorough police investigations and legal proceedings. Both suspects remain in custody as their cases progress. Authorities are working to uncover full details and ensure justice in these disturbing crimes.

This article was translated and synthesized from French sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.

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