Mayor of Caluire-et-Cuire: ‘Not an Accident, but Road Homicide’
Caluire-et-Cuire, France, April 1, 2026 – The mayor of Caluire-et-Cuire, Bastien Joint, has disclosed new and ‘overwhelming’ information regarding the fatal incident that took place in his municipality on March 3rd. A couple, Claude and Geneviève, were tragically killed while crossing a pedestrian crossing at the roundabout of Montée des Soldats by an intoxicated driver. The mayor, expressing his ‘anger’, stated that ‘what happened was not an accident. It is a road homicide caused by an accumulation of irresponsible and unacceptable behaviors.’
Driver’s ‘Irresponsible’ Actions Unveiled
The 72-year-old driver, who is being prosecuted for aggravated road homicide, was found to have a blood alcohol level of 1.59 g/l, was driving without insurance, and investigations are currently underway to determine if he was using his phone at the time of the incident. Mayor Joint emphasized, ‘He is not a random motorist who caused an unfortunate accident, but a road delinquent who got behind the wheel while intoxicated and ignored all elementary rules of caution.’
The mayor stressed the need for firmness in dealing with such cases, stating, ‘This type of behavior kills. And it will continue to kill if we are not implacable. And I will personally ensure that all light is shed, and that justice is rendered with the greatest firmness.’
City to Become Civil Party, Damages for Victims’ Association
In response to the tragedy, the City of Caluire-et-Cuire has announced its intention to become a civil party in the case. Any damages awarded will be ‘entirely donated to an association for victims of road violence.’
The incident has deeply affected the community, with Mayor Joint noting that ‘two lives have been taken. The Caluirards are in shock.’
This case highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and the consequences of irresponsible driving. Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the deaths of Claude and Geneviève.
