A 15-year-old minor, who is a cousin of one of the two individuals under investigation for the “murder” in the fatal attack on Philippe Coopman on April 16 in Grande-Synthe, has been taken into custody, as announced by Dunkirk’s prosecutor, Charlotte Huet, to Agence France-Presse (AFP) on April 22. The detained individual had been attacked in the same town during the night from Friday to Saturday. The prosecutor stated that there will be no further communication until the end of the custody period to preserve the tranquility and confidentiality of the investigation. Kelvyn Coopman, Philippe’s older brother, expressed relief, emphasizing the importance of apprehending all those involved in the incident, regardless of their number, to dismantle the group of criminals.
Two minors, aged 14 and 15, have already been under investigation and placed in provisional detention on Friday for the murder of Philippe Coopman, a young man of 22 who passed away on Tuesday due to head injuries, causing profound grief. At this stage of the inquiry, it is believed to be a “murder aggravated by the circumstance of ambush,” as detailed by Charlotte Huet at a press conference. The two suspects, one from Grande-Synthe and the other from Dunkirk, disclosed during custody that they had arranged a meeting with the victim in a parking lot near a store via a dating website called Cocoland, pretending to be a young female, which they considered morally wrong to respond to such a request. Effects were stolen during the attack, possibly indicating a motive.
Following the incident, a witness reported that Philippe Coopman was assaulted by three individuals while on the phone and had his device stolen before they fled the scene. The prosecutor confirmed that more suspects are being pursued in connection with the case. The 15-year-old minor taken into custody on Monday was also attacked over the weekend and suffered injuries that resulted in a work incapacity of more than eight days. He was found naked on the road by a passing motorist after claiming to have been assaulted by two masked individuals, whom he had arranged to meet through a social network. A white march was held on Friday morning in Grande-Synthe, attended by around 1,500 individuals, to honor Philippe Coopman, whose funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon. The mayor of the city, Martial Beyaert, lamented the loss of one of their own and urged the troubled youth to reflect on the consequences of their actions.
The details of the investigation and arrests are part of a wider case surrounding the tragic death of Philippe Coopman, which has shaken the community and prompted calls for justice. The involvement of minors and the circumstances of the attack have raised concerns about the safety and well-being of individuals in the area. The emotional impact of the incident is evident in the public response, including the large turnout at the white march and the statements made by local officials expressing solidarity with the victim’s family. The ongoing efforts to identify and apprehend all suspects involved in the crime underline the importance of accountability and justice in addressing such violent acts within society.
The use of social media and online platforms in coordinating the attack has highlighted the risks associated with digital interactions, particularly among vulnerable individuals such as minors. The role of technology in facilitating criminal behavior and exploitation has become a focal point in the investigation, as authorities work to trace the online activities of the suspects and prevent similar incidents in the future. The community’s response to the tragedy, through public gatherings and messages of support, reflects a collective determination to confront and address the challenges posed by violent crimes and anti-social behavior, with a focus on prevention and intervention to protect individuals at risk. The need for improved security measures and social support networks to prevent such incidents from occurring again is a key aspect of the ongoing response to the case.
As the investigation progresses and additional suspects are pursued, the focus remains on achieving justice for the victim and his family, while also addressing the broader issues of youth violence and criminal activity in the community. The sense of loss and shock following Philippe Coopman’s death has sparked a renewed commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals, particularly young people who may be vulnerable to exploitation and harm. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement, social services, and community organizations in responding to the incident demonstrate a shared commitment to preventing similar tragedies and holding those responsible accountable for their actions. The ongoing support for the Coopman family and the wider community reflects a deep sense of solidarity and determination to address the root causes of violence and promote positive change within society.
