Trial opens in Paris over murder of Argentina rugby star Federico Aramburu

The trial over the murder of former Argentina rugby international ⁠Federico Aramburu opens in ⁠Paris on Monday, more than four years after he was shot dead in the French capital following an altercation near the Boulevard Saint-Germain.

Two ⁠former members of a violent far-right group will face trial on murder and attempted murder charges.

Loik Le Priol, 32, who investigators say fired the fatal shots, ⁠is charged with murder. His associate Romain Bouvier, 35, who prosecutors say also fired a weapon during the incident, is charged with attempted murder.

Both men are already serving prison sentences for aggravated assault in a separate case.

According to the investigation, Aramburu, 42, was having a late drink with friend and fellow former rugby player Shaun Hegarty on the terrace of the Mabillon cafe on March 19, 2022. Le Priol, Bouvier and Le Priol’s then girlfriend, Lyson Rochemir, 29, who is also on trial on an attempted murder charge, were at a nearby table.

Investigators say an altercation broke out between the two groups. CCTV ⁠footage reviewed during the investigation showed a confrontation involving Hegarty ⁠and Le Priol. The dispute escalated into a physical fight involving Aramburu, Hegarty, Le Priol and Bouvier before security staff intervened, according to court documents.

Prosecutors say the confrontation continued outside shortly afterwards. According to ⁠investigators, Bouvier, who had arrived in a car driven by Rochemir, fired shots at Aramburu before Le Priol opened fire. Aramburu ⁠died at the scene.

The three defendants fled, according to prosecutors. ⁠Rochemir was arrested in Paris later that day, and Bouvier a few days later in the Sarthe region. A third man, Antony Sorrentino, is also on trial, accused of helping Bouvier evade arrest. Le Priol was ‌arrested in Hungary while attempting to cross into Ukraine.