Jérôme Barella accused in Lyhanna murder; family abuse claims revived

Eleven‑year‑old Lyhanna disappeared on 29 May in the Gers region of France and was found dead days later in an abandoned agricultural silo. The main suspect, 41‑year‑old Jérôme Barella, was identified near the local college via video surveillance and has a history of alleged sexual offences.

Investigators have reopened an inquiry into Barella’s father, 71‑year‑old Joël Barella, after new accusations that he raped two minors, including his own granddaughter. A former classmate of Jérôme recounted, “Se dire que c’est quelqu’un qu’on a côtoyé… ça fait un choc,” describing the shock of learning about the suspect’s alleged crimes.

Further reports indicate that the Barella family’s past includes other allegations of sexual abuse, drawing criticism of the justice system for earlier failures to intervene. The case has sparked nationwide protests and calls for accountability.

Authorities continue to examine the broader network of alleged abuses linked to the family while seeking justice for Lyhanna.