32 Year Old Man Found Disembowelled and Arranged in Cross Shape in French Park

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A 32 year old man was discovered dead in a public park in Pont‑de‑Metz, northern France, on 2 June 2025, with injuries suggesting a violent homicide. The body showed a slit throat and disembowelment, and had been deliberately placed in the form of a cross, prompting authorities to launch a serious criminal investigation.

Local police were alerted by a member of the public who found the body in a communal green space adjoining residential housing and leisure facilities. Investigators confirmed that the victim, a man originally from the broader region, though not a resident of the commune, regularly walked in the area during the early evening. On arrival, officers identified multiple stab wounds to the neck and abdomen. They also observed that the corpse had been arranged with arms and legs extended in a cruciform pattern, suggesting intentional staging.

Approximately 20 forensic officers remained at the scene into the night, securing the area and systematically gathering evidence. A post‑mortem examination has been ordered to establish the precise cause of death and to determine whether the victim was killed on site or relocated afterwards.

Prosecutors have classified the incident as intentional homicide, which under French law carries serious penalties. By 5 June 2025, no suspect had been named, and no motive had been confirmed. CCTV footage from nearby streets and interviews with potential witnesses are being examined in an effort to piece together the timeline. In addition, forensic teams are analysing physical evidence for possible DNA, fingerprints, and other forensic clues.

The victim’s identity has been withheld pending formal notification of next of kin. Local sources report that the man had no known ties to criminal or extremist groups, though officials have emphasised that all lines of inquiry remain open. A spokesperson for the Amiens prosecutor’s office issued a public appeal: “Anyone who may have been near the park during the late evening hours of 1 June is urged to come forward should they have observed anything unusual.”

Residents of Pont‑de‑Metz have expressed shock at the violence involved, though local leaders and law enforcement have sought to reassure the community, urging calm while emphasising that there is no indication of a wider pattern of attacks. Police have lifted initial cordons but left open the possibility of re‑establishing restricted zones if new evidence is discovered.

There is currently no suggestion of links to ideologically motivated violence, nor to recent incidents involving foreign nationals in other parts of France. Media coverage has avoided speculation, focusing instead on verified details and official channels. The prosecutor’s office reiterated that it remains committed to a meticulous and unbiased investigation process.

Eyewitnesses and local residents described the park as normally tranquil, with few prior incidents of serious crime. Some community members noted that evening walkers occasionally passed through, though the victim’s presence in the area appeared unremarkable until this incident.

The continuing investigation involves collaboration between local police (Gendarmerie Nationale), forensic services, and the public prosecutor. Authorities have not established a motive, suspect identity, or any direct link to other violent events.

Further updates are expected as forensic results, witness statements, and surveillance footage are analysed. Those with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Amiens gendarmerie or local law enforcement immediately.

This tragic case remains under active investigation. Officials emphasise that the priority is to establish facts and deliver justice for the deceased, while ensuring public safety and community reassurance throughout the inquiry.