Nicolas Ullens de Schooten murder trial

The trial of Nicolas Ullens de Schooten at the Nivelles Assize Court regarding the March 2023 murder of his stepmother, Myriam Lechien, in Ohain, Belgium, is nearing its conclusion. Investigators allege the shooting occurred following a dispute over the fortune of his late father, Baron Guy Ullens, after a request for financial assistance was denied.

During the proceedings, the court heard conflicting testimonies regarding Lechien’s character. While supporters, including her nephew and former employees, described her as a “fundamentally good and courageous person,” a former daughter-in-law testified that she was controlling and had distanced Guy Ullens from his children. Defense representatives stated these varying accounts serve to provide context to the family dynamics at the center of the case.

As the trial approaches its end, the public prosecutor has requested a conviction for premeditated murder, a charge that carries a potential sentence of life imprisonment. The prosecution highlighted a nine-minute window between when Ullens left his father’s property and the shooting, arguing he had sufficient time to reconsider his actions. The prosecutor detailed a sequence of deliberate decisions, including causing a vehicle collision and firing six shots at close range, three of which were fatal.

Defense arguments and civil party lawyers have focused on financial motives, suggesting the attack was driven by jealousy regarding the inheritance. The defense and the accused are expected to speak before a verdict is delivered.