Angers court begins trial of inmate for two murders during 2023 escape

Stéphane Iganache, a 45-year-old inmate, is standing trial in Angers before the Maine-et-Loire Assize Court for two murders committed during a two-week escape in July 2023. Iganache escaped from the Argentan detention center while on a temporary release permit.

The first victim, 40-year-old Adélaïde Duplouy, was found strangled in her home in Angers. The second victim, 72-year-old retired mechanic and former municipal councilor Jean-Claude Havard, was found dead in Chailland, Mayenne, with his body showing numerous wounds and bruises.

In addition to the murders, Iganache faces charges of escape, violence, and multiple thefts. He is also suspected of assaulting a pregnant woman during his flight. The defendant faces the possibility of life imprisonment. The trial is expected to continue until September 18.