A 23-year-old French man has confessed to murdering an 11-year-old girl, allegedly in a fit of rage after losing a game of Fortnite, according to French media reports.
The suspect, identified as Owen L., an unemployed resident of Epinay-sur-Orge, Essonne, told police that he had been playing the popular video game when he got into an argument with another player who insulted him. Enraged, he left his home on February 7 to cool off, but his anger soon escalated into a horrific crime.
Brutal Attack on Innocent Victim
According to Prosecutor Grégoire Dulin, Owen initially planned to commit a robbery to release his frustration but instead crossed paths with 11-year-old Louise Lasalle, who was walking home from school.
Noticing her mobile phone hanging from a cord around her neck, he decided to follow her. Luring her into a wooded area by pretending he had lost something, he then threatened her with a knife and demanded money. When she screamed, he panicked, pushed her to the ground, and stabbed her.
Her body was discovered the next day, 12 hours after her parents reported her missing. Investigators found male DNA on her hands, confirming a struggle. Her phone was found beside her, and there were no signs of sexual assault.
Prior Violent Behavior and Failed Attempt to Target Another Victim
French media reported that Owen had attempted to lure another girl into the woods earlier that day, but she refused and managed to escape.
His violent tendencies were known—his older sister had reported him to the police in April 2023 for aggression. He also had a criminal record for petty offences.
Girlfriend Charged for Failing to Report the Crime
After committing the gruesome murder, Owen allegedly told his 24-year-old girlfriend that he had “done something serious.” He then disposed of the murder weapon, bleached his clothes, and threw them away.
His girlfriend has now been charged with failing to report a crime, while Owen remains in police custody, facing charges for the brutal murder of Louise Lasalle.
