The family of a 59-year-old man who died during the massive demonstrations in Paris on October 17 has filed a criminal complaint against police officers, alleging that exposure to tear gas may have caused his death.
Christophe M. died on October 17 in Paris' 10th arrondissement, near Place de la Republique, amid demonstrations that turned violent as protesters clashed with police. His parents and partner filed the complaint on Monday, accusing officers of alleged intentional violence by a public official resulting in death without intent to kill.
What the autopsy found — and what it did not
An autopsy conducted last week concluded that Christophe died of "acute cardiorespiratory failure in the context of a pre-existing heart condition," the Paris prosecutor's office told French broadcaster BFMTV on Monday.
The examination also ruled out injuries from grabbing, defensive actions or restraint. But the autopsy did not establish whether tear gas exposure contributed to his death — and that unanswered question is at the heart of the family's complaint.
According to the complaint, Christophe was exposed to a heavy barrage of tear gas at Place de la Republique during clashes between demonstrators and security forces. His lawyer, Youri Krassoulia, told BFMTV that scientific studies have documented tear gas's potential effects on the heart and called for a full investigation into the circumstances of his death.
Further forensic analyses have been requested as the investigation continues under the supervision of an investigating judge.
A family that disputes the official account
Relatives describe Christophe — a 59-year-old entertainment industry worker — as a man without heart problems, and say they learned the autopsy results through the press. Firefighters were called at 6:20 p.m. on October 17 for a 59-year-old man unconscious on the public road at the corner of rue Lancry and boulevard Magenta, near Place de la Republique, according to Paris police headquarters.
The Paris police headquarters has asserted that the victim's illness was "unrelated to the violence or any action by law enforcement."
The day 550,000 people marched
The death occurred during nationwide demonstrations on October 17 that drew approximately 550,000 participants across France, according to the Interior Ministry. Vehicles were set on fire, several shops were looted, and more than 2,000 people were arrested.
The complaint lands as France's Senate passes a bill that would make protesters pay up to €10,000 for riot damage — and as new protests are planned for October 31, with a general strike called for November 5.