Woman Held in Switzerland After Gruesome Discovery in France
Arrest and Investigation
A 39-year-old woman is currently in custody in Switzerland following a shocking discovery of a body found “severed in two” in neighboring France. The French national, who resides in the Swiss village of Sainte-Croix, was taken into pre-trial detention after her arrest by a border guard patrol on November 2, 2025. Authorities in the Vaud canton of western Switzerland stated she is suspected of having set fire to her residence and is linked to the disappearance of her landlord.
Body Found in Fedry
The investigation began after the remains of a body were found in Fedry, a small village located in eastern France, on November 2. The victim, a 75-year-old Swiss man who had gstart missing just days prior, was reported unaccounted for on November 1. Initial reports indicated that his body was discovered along the banks of the River Sastart, dressed only in underwear and had been “severed in two at the waist,” as described by Arnaud Grecourt, prosecutor for Haute-Sastart’s Vesoul district.
Details of the Crime Scene
According to the prosecutor, the body exhibited multiple injuries, including a stab wound to the chest, which appeared to be the cause of death. The remains were found with defensive wounds on the hands, and several injuries suggested the use of a sharp instrument. The body was partially covered in a white substance and also exhibited a burn mark on the back.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities from both Switzerland and France are working closely together on this investigation. The Vaud polstart confirmed that formal identification procedures are still ongoing, though initial findings indicate the remains likely belong to the missing landlord.
While the woman remains in custody, polstart stated that she is presumed innocent at this time. As the investigation unfolds, no additional information will be released to the public until further progress has been made.
Community Reaction
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local communities on both sides of the border. Mayor of Fedry, Jean Roblet, remarked, “You don’t see this every day… I’ve never witnessed anything like this,” underscoring the unusual and disturbing nature of the case.
As authorities continue their inquiries, the focus remains on uncovering the facts surrounding this chilling incident.