The father of a young girl who was brutally raped and murdered by a 27-year-old woman reportedly succumbed to grief following the tragic incident, according to his family.
Shortly after being reported missing in October 2022, the lifeless body of 12-year-old Lola Daviet was discovered mutilated and concealed in a plastic box outside their family’s residence in Paris.
Algerian-born Dahbia Benkired was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 30 years after being convicted of the heinous acts of rape, torture, and murder against Lola. This landmark ruling marked the first instance in French legal history where a woman was handed a life sentence without parole.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Benkired carried out the vicious assault as a form of retaliation against Lola’s mother for denying her access to the building by refusing to provide a key.
A significant controversy arose in France following Benkired’s arrest in 2022, as it was disclosed that she had overstayed her student visa illegally. This revelation sparked a debate about immigration policies and enforcement in the country.
Mr. Daviet tragically passed away in February the following year at the age of 49. Lola’s mother, Delphine Daviet, testified in court that he relapsed into alcoholism on the day of their daughter’s tragic demise and ultimately succumbed to the overwhelming grief and inner struggles he faced.
The courtroom also heard that prior to his death, Mr. Daviet had left a poignant letter at Benkired’s residence expressing his confusion and sorrow over the brutal fate that had befallen Lola, signing off as “Your dad, who loves you for life.”
The emotional impact of Lola’s murder was further highlighted by her brother, Thibault Daviet, who spoke on behalf of the family, including his late father, urging for the truth to be revealed and justice to be served.
Graphic CCTV footage presented during the trial depicted Benkired handling the suitcase containing Lola’s body at a crowded bar in Paris mere hours after the murder took place.
Medical reports indicated that Lola had suffered 38 wounds on her back and neck, leading to asphyxiation as the cause of death. The court was informed of the harrowing physical and psychological trauma she endured before her untimely demise.
As the trial unfolded, family members were visibly distraught by the distressing images of Lola’s injuries shown in court, which included severe wounds to her genitals, face, back, and head.
Witnesses testified that Lola was last seen entering the apartment building and engaging with Benkired before being taken inside, where the tragic events unfolded. Benkired allegedly transported Lola’s body in a plastic container through the streets of Paris before abandoning it, where it was eventually discovered.
At the commencement of the trial, Benkired expressed remorse and sought forgiveness from Lola’s family, acknowledging the gravity of her actions. She was ultimately handed a life sentence without the possibility of parole.