Fatal Accident in Forbach in September 2015: Court Allows Presentation of Photos from the Reconstruction Exercise

In a fatal accident that occurred in Forbach in September 2015, Barlen Mardaymootoo and Matthieu Coret, who are facing charges of involuntary manslaughter due to negligence, faced a setback in the intermediate court. Their objection to the submission of photographs taken by the police during the reconstruction of the events was denied on Wednesday, December 17, as the court ordered these images to be presented.

Barlen Mardaymootoo (38 years old) and Matthieu Coret (33 years old) contested the submission of photos taken by a police photographer under the direction of two senior officers during the reconstruction exercise. The defense argued that the defendants had not been confronted with the locations indicated by these senior officers. On the other hand, the prosecution insisted on the submission of the photographs, stating that there was no evidence to suggest that it would be prejudicial to the two men. They added that the defense would have the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses on this matter.

In her ruling, Judge Keshri Soochit stated that the court cannot determine at this stage whether the locations depicted in the photos are neutral or have a direct impact on the criminal liability of the defendants. Therefore, it would not be appropriate to conclude that they are prejudicial. The photos have thus been allowed for submission. The trial will resume on March 10, 2026.

This accident, which occurred on September 19, 2015, in Forbach, claimed the lives of Arvind and Manisha Shamloll. The couple was on a motorcycle when they were struck by two vehicles. Barlen Mardaymootoo and Matthieu Coret were each driving a car. Both men pleaded not guilty.