Cédric Cornet, the mayor of Gosier, Guadeloupe, was found dead in his home in July 2020. The medical findings revealed that he had died from mechanical asphyxiation due to the obstruction of his airways by a large foreign body, likely a piece of food. This conclusion was based on the autopsy report released by the prosecutor in Pointe-à-Pitre in order to prevent the spread of partial or inaccurate information. Following his death, there were doubts and rumors circulating, with the population expressing disbelief at the tragedy. Additionally, a complaint was filed against an unknown person for murder by the family’s three lawyers, who believe that the involvement of a third party is highly probable and are calling for further investigation.
In response to the doubts surrounding Cédric Cornet’s death, the prosecutor decided to open a judicial investigation to determine the cause of his death. This decision was made in light of various expert opinions that had been gathered, indicating that the case warranted further scrutiny. The family’s lawyers welcomed this decision, noting that time had already been lost and emphasizing the existence of threats against their client. Despite initially enjoying a wave of success after his election in 2020, Cédric Cornet faced challenges from his own majority. The council had passed a resolution mandating that all elected officials serve on a voluntary basis, a campaign promise made by Cornet to avoid any suspicions of personal enrichment and to address the municipality’s complex financial situation.
In addition to the voluntary service requirement, Cornet had also approved separate “representation expenses” for himself, totaling €30,000 annually at the intercommunity level and €20,000 at the municipal level. This decision was met with resistance from council members and other officials who were denied their regular allowances. Despite his initial popularity and a convincing victory in the elections, Cornet’s tenure as mayor was marked by internal discord and opposition within his own majority. His relationship with the council had deteriorated rapidly after his election, leading to tensions and conflicts between members of the municipal government.
Cédric Cornet’s sudden and tragic death raised further questions and suspicions within the community, with calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his passing. The mayor’s past legal troubles, including a conviction for sexual assault on a minor in 2019, added complexity to the situation and fueled speculation about the events leading up to his death. The ongoing judicial inquiry aims to provide clarity and closure for both his family and the residents of Gosier, who have been left reeling from the loss of their mayor under such unexpected and puzzling circumstances.
