French authorities have launched a murder inquiry following the discovery of a 12-year-old boy's body on the banks of the Vilaine river in the northwestern city of Rennes. The child was found with a wet towel tightly bound around his neck, prosecutors confirmed on Sunday.
Discovery and Response
A fisherman alerted emergency services after hearing a child's cries near the river around 4:40 pm on Sunday. Firefighters arrived at the scene by 4:50 pm, but despite their efforts, the boy was pronounced dead at the location. The body was found concealed in a bush close to a residential complex.
Investigation Underway
The local prosecutors' office stated that the exact circumstances of the death remain unclear, but the involvement of another person is being considered. The Organized and Specialized Crime Division of Rennes has taken charge of the murder investigation. The boy has not yet been formally identified.
Police conducted examinations at the scene on Sunday evening, with an AFP journalist observing the activity near the riverside neighborhood. A local resident in her thirties, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed shock, describing the area as usually quiet and trouble-free.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
