The disappearance of 28-year-old jogger Agathe Hilairet has sent shockwaves through the Vienne department of France, as authorities grapple with the unsettling circumstances surrounding her case. Agathe vanished on April 10, 2025, while jogging near her parents' home in Vivonne, a town located just 20 kilometers from Poitiers. Her disappearance has not only ignited a massive search effort but also coincided with another mysterious case involving a 90-year-old woman, Lucette Potet, who disappeared on the same day.
Agathe, a well-known figure in her community and an avid runner, was last seen around 10:30 AM on her usual jogging route. After failing to return home, her father raised the alarm at approximately 3 PM, triggering an extensive search operation. The local gendarmerie quickly mobilized, deploying between 80 and 100 officers to scour the area, which spans a forested region around Vivonne, Voulon, Celle-Lévescault, and Gençay, covering approximately 100 square kilometers.
As of April 15, 2025, authorities have received 140 witness reports related to Agathe's disappearance, reflecting the community's concern and involvement. The search has employed various resources, including canine units and drones, yet no sign of Agathe has been found. The situation escalated when, on April 14, the Poitiers prosecutor opened a judicial investigation for "enlèvement et séquestration" (kidnapping and sequestration), indicating a serious concern for her safety.
Meanwhile, on the same day that Agathe disappeared, Lucette Potet was also reported missing in Leugny, a village approximately 73 kilometers from Vivonne. Lucette, who left her home without any identification or personal belongings, was last seen walking. Her family reported her missing after her cane and umbrella were discovered near the Creuse River, just 300 meters from her home. Local authorities have stated that Lucette did not enjoy being near water, raising further questions about her disappearance.
Mayor Serge Migeon of Leugny expressed his concerns, noting the unusual nature of both disappearances occurring on the same day. As of now, investigators have not established any connection between Agathe and Lucette's cases. However, the simultaneous nature of their disappearances has drawn public attention and concern, with many in the community feeling unsettled.
In a recent interview, David Galtier, former deputy director of the police judicial for the national gendarmerie, provided insights into the ongoing investigations. Speaking on April 15, he emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "We expected this judicial investigation. It’s the logical next step given the real concerns surrounding both cases, especially since operational searches have yielded no results. The legal framework allows investigators to expand their efforts significantly."
Galtier highlighted the importance of the judicial inquiry, which grants law enforcement additional powers, such as extended detention periods and the ability to conduct telephone tapping and geographical tracking. He noted that each year, there are approximately 40,000 reports of missing persons in France, with over 1,000 classified as concerning. The circumstances surrounding Agathe's disappearance, he argued, warranted the heightened scrutiny and resources being allocated to the investigation.
Agathe's family and friends have described her as a sociable and active individual, raising further questions about her sudden disappearance. Galtier remarked, "I have never encountered a case of suicide involving someone who went out for a jog. It’s unusual, and the initial reports from her family suggested she was in distress."
The emotional impact of Agathe’s disappearance has rippled through the community, with residents expressing their shock and concern. Galtier stated, "It’s incredible to see a young woman who embodies health and vitality vanish without a trace. It creates a void that is hard to accept. This situation compels law enforcement to act, and it resonates deeply with the public."
The search for Agathe continues, with investigators meticulously combing through her usual running routes and interviewing potential witnesses. The community remains hopeful for her safe return, yet the lack of leads has left many feeling anxious. The dual disappearance of both Agathe and Lucette has stirred fears and questions about safety in the region, prompting discussions about the vulnerabilities faced by individuals, particularly women, in public spaces.
As the investigation unfolds, both families await answers. Agathe’s father and relatives have been actively involved in the search efforts, participating in community outreach and urging anyone with information to come forward. The local authorities have reiterated their commitment to finding Agathe and ensuring that all possible avenues of investigation are pursued.
In light of the ongoing investigations, the Vienne community is rallying together, hoping for a resolution to these troubling cases. The emotional toll on families and the community at large is palpable, as they navigate the uncertainty and fear that has accompanied these disappearances. The search for Agathe Hilairet and Lucette Potet continues, with hopes that both will be found safe.
