The tragic and mysterious death of 25-year-old Slymane Lerouge has garnered renewed attention as details surrounding the investigation continue to unravel. Lerouge was found dead following a fire at his apartment in Caudebec-lès-Elbeuf, Normandy, on August 1, 2023, which authorities suspect to be the result of arson. The incident raises numerous questions about what truly transpired on the fateful night, particularly as the investigation has hit several roadblocks.
On December 16, 2024, Esther Diego, Slymane's mother, will appear on the popular French television program "Appel à Témoins," hosted by Julien Courbet. The show, which aims to assist families of crime victims by seeking new testimonies from viewers, will focus on various unresolved cases, including Lerouge's. Esther expressed her frustration, stating, "It has been sixteen months since my son died, and we have no news from justice. The only thing I know today is the file has been handed to examining magistrate Rouen, and there is an investigation underway."
The fire, which allegedly originated from trash bins located within the building where Lerouge resided, sparked significant chaos after it was reported. Four residents were evacuated from the building, yet tragically, Slymane was found unresponsive hours later. Initially, authorities considered the possibility of accidental causes but later shifted their focus to arson as the most plausible explanation.
Eyewitness accounts suggest the evening of the fire was tumultuous, with loud festivities and potential altercations occurring at neighboring apartments. Esther shared her distress, saying, "Everyone knows each other. There was lots of noise and fights. Neighbors heard people threatening to set fire." She has actively pursued her own inquiries, gathering testimonies and information to aid the investigation.
It has been speculated whether financial disputes between Lerouge and someone from the neighborhood may have contributed to the tragic incident. The night of the fire, Lerouge had reportedly asked one of his neighbors to lower the volume of their celebration due to having work the next day. To this, he was met with hostility—a threat conveyed to him when he returned. "He was told if he came back, it would end badly for him, and they would set fire," recalled Esther, emphasizing the seriousness of the circumstances on the night he lost his life.
Adding to the stage of confusion, one witness during the show made shocking claims about having overheard someone admit to killing Slymane. "I heard someone admit he killed Slymane after the altercation and then set fire to him," stated the witness, who will remain anonymous for legal reasons. This alarming confession was shared with Julien Courbet, who now seeks clarity on the incident.
Despite the progress made through public engagement channels offered by shows like "Appel à Témoins," the investigation itself remains stagnant. Esther's quest for justice is compounded by numerous unsolved elements and miscommunications surrounding the case. She remarks, "The building could soon be destroyed since it is completely dilapidated, but until then, I have no answers.”
Over the years, "Appel à Témoins" has successfully reopened cold cases and drawn potential witnesses to come forward. Whether through discussions among viewers or contributions via contact numbers, the show hopes to illuminate the dark corners of unsolved tragedies. Esther is determined to leverage this platform, imploring viewers to come forward should they have any knowledge related to Slymane’s case.
The current call for public assistance emphasizes the urgency of resolving the mystery surrounding Lerouge's death. Viewers will be provided with confidential means to share information during the airing of the show, urging individuals who might hold clues about the night of the fire to come forth. The number available for anonymous tips is 0800 10 11 21.
Esther’s emotional struggle and the unrelenting pursuit of answers remain at the heart of this story focusing on Slymane Lerouge's untimely death. Through the lens of the show, there is hope not only for finding justice for Slymane but also for bringing peace to the family he left behind.
