People gather in Grande-Synthe at the site where Philippe was fatally assaulted on April 18, 2024. Two minors, aged 14 and 15, were charged with murder on Friday, April 19, following the death of 22-year-old Philippe, who was violently attacked on Monday night in Grande-Synthe (Nord). The prosecutor of Dunkirk, Charlotte Huet, stated during a press conference that there are reasons to believe this was a “murder aggravated by the circumstance of an ambush”. One of the minors admitted to organizing an ambush against the victim through a free dating site called Coco.gg, according to a police source. The site allows users to engage in discussions without verifying their identity.
Over a thousand people gathered in Grande-Synthe on Friday morning to pay tribute to the victim, Philippe. A banner with the words “Tribute to Philippe” led the procession, which included the victim’s brothers, Dylan and Kelvyn. Many attendees, some dressed in white, held photos of the victim. People spoke highly of Philippe, describing him as a great friend who was kind and attentive. Witnesses recalled Philippe’s positive qualities and the shock felt by his friends and family. The violent attack was described as a “barbaric” act that resulted in Philippe being hospitalized and ultimately succumbing to his injuries.
The white march, held in silence, passed by the scene of the assault where flowers had been laid in remembrance. According to a witness, Philippe was attacked by three individuals while he was on a phone call. They stole his phone before fleeing the scene, leaving Philippe with severe injuries. The Prime Minister, Gabriel Attal, condemned the attack as an act of “barbarity” and expressed his condolences to Philippe’s family and colleagues. Philippe, described as a kind and trouble-free person, had worked in various roles within the community and was about to start a new job at Amazon.
The Mayor of Grande-Synthe, Martial Beyaert, urged the community to not give in to fear or the desire for revenge. He called for respect and dignity during the march held in Philippe’s memory. The horrific nature of the attack and the loss of a young life deeply affected the residents of Grande-Synthe, as they stood in solidarity with Philippe’s family and friends. The investigation into the murder is ongoing, and authorities are working to uncover the full circumstances of the attack. The tragic loss of Philippe has brought the community together in mourning and reflection on the senseless violence that led to his death.
The death of Philippe sparked a public outcry and raised concerns about safety in the community. The use of online platforms for organizing violent acts has also come under scrutiny. Authorities are looking into the role of the dating site in facilitating the ambush that led to Philippe’s death. The memorial march and tributes paid to Philippe reflect the impact of his loss on the community and the need for justice to be served. The Mayor’s call for unity and resilience in the face of tragedy resonated with many, as Grande-Synthe grapples with the aftermath of the senseless violence that claimed Philippe’s life.
