On November 7, 2024, the lifeless body of 13-year-old Maëlyne Lugez was found in a stream near her school, l’Horizon, in Saint-Jean-Chrysostome. Her disappearance occurred just a day earlier when she failed to show up for her afternoon class. A public inquiry into her death has commenced, marked by emotional testimonies from her family.
Details of the Inquiry
The first day of the public inquiry saw Maëlyne’s brother, whose identity is protected due to his minor status, share touching memories. He described her as kind and shy, someone who struggled to make friends and open up. “She had significant difficulties,” he recalled, emphasizing her gentle nature.
The Coroner’s Opening Statement
Coroner Luc Malouin expressed his condolences to Maëlyne’s parents during the inquiry. He stated, “The loss of a 13-year-old is incredibly challenging. This investigation will be conducted with utmost respect.”
Accidental Drowning or Intentional Act?
A coroner’s report initially declared the cause of Maëlyne’s death as accidental drowning. However, her father, Samuel Lugez, publicly disputed this conclusion, suggesting that Maëlyne’s psychological distress and institutional deficiencies contributed to her demise. Malouin emphasized the inquiry would start fresh, disregarding the previous report.
Concerning Statements Prior to Her Death
On the evening of November 5, 2024, two days prior to the discovery of her body, Maëlyne made troubling remarks to her father. These comments prompted an emergency evaluation by a professional. Martin Vaillancourt, who conducted the assessment, described her as “suffering” yet “cooperative.” During their conversation, Maëlyne opened up about being bullied and her struggles with anxiety, expressing a desire to end her suffering. Vaillancourt assessed her risk level as moderate, believing she did not have a clear suicide plan.
Autopsy Insights
Dr. Yann Dazé Factuel, who performed the autopsy on Maëlyne, stated that drowning was the probable cause of death. However, he could not determine whether it was accidental or intentional, noting that drowning could be a means of suicide under certain conditions. Toxicology results revealed no presence of drugs or medication at toxic levels in her system.
A Disturbing Text Message
Isabelle Lizotte, a special educator at l’Horizon, also provided testimony. She stated that Maëlyne was not known for skipping classes or substance use. Furthermore, Lizotte revealed that Maëlyne sent a concerning text message to her best friend on the day of her disappearance, expressing that she was not feeling well. Maëlyne’s parents are expected to testify during the continuation of the inquiry.
- Date of Discovery: November 7, 2024
- Location: Saint-Jean-Chrysostome, near l’Horizon School
- Victim: Maëlyne Lugez, age 13
- Initial Conclusion: Accidental drowning
- Public Inquiry Start: November 2024
This inquiry aims to uncover the events surrounding Maëlyne’s tragic death, seeking answers to both her psychological state and the circumstances of her last days.
