Father Dies of Grief After Daughter’s Tragic Murder in France, Mother Reveals

The tragic case of Lola Daviet has left an indelible mark on France, highlighting the intense grief and anger following her brutal murder in 2022. The young girl was only 12 when she fell victim to a horrific crime committed by Dhabia Benkired, a 27-year-old Algerian migrant. Lola’s mother shared the heartbreaking impact of this tragedy during a recent court session.

Father Dies of Grief After Daughter’s Tragic Murder

Lola’s body was discovered in a suitcase, mutilated and partially decapitated, igniting national outrage. The shocking nature of the crime led to widespread protests demanding stricter immigration policies. In a court session last week, Lola’s mother, Delphine Daviet, revealed the profound grief that overwhelmed her husband, Johan Daviet. He began drinking heavily the day their daughter’s body was found and passed away in February 2024 at the age of 49.

Details of the Crime

Dhabia Benkired lured Lola into her sister’s apartment after school, where she subjected the young girl to severe torture. The court heard that Benkired forced Lola to undress and performed violent acts against her, ultimately leading to her suffocation with duct tape. The cruel assault ended with Lola being stuffed into a black plastic suitcase, which was later found in the lobby of an apartment complex.

Court Proceedings and Sentencing

Benkired, who was working as a prostitute after overstaying her visa, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole—the first woman in France to receive such a sentence. During the trial, shocking evidence presented included photographs of Lola’s injuries. The public outrage was palpable, as many believed the incident exposed failures in immigration enforcement.

Impact on the Community

• Johan Daviet’s tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the emotional and psychological toll such violent acts impose on families.
• The case prompted calls for tighter immigration laws, with politicians emphasizing the need for accountability in the system.
• The community remembered Lola during memorial marches, demonstrating solidarity against violence and mourning her loss.

In a poignant moment during the trial, Benkired expressed her regret and asked the Daviet family for forgiveness. However, the lasting scars left on Lola’s family and the community remain. The brutal nature of this crime has sparked significant discussion about immigrant regulations in France, making it a pivotal moment in the country’s ongoing dialogue about safety and justice.