Investigation Continues After 11-Year-Old Boy Found Dead Near Vilaine River in Rennes

Rennes Community Shocked by Child’s Death

Authorities in the northwestern French city of Rennes are continuing their investigation following the tragic death of an 11-year-old boy whose body was discovered near the banks of the Vilaine River.

The child was found on the afternoon of May 24 in a wooded area close to the river, not far from the city center. Emergency responders rushed to the scene after a fisherman reportedly heard the cries of a child and alerted police. Despite extensive efforts to save him, the boy was pronounced dead shortly afterward. Authorities later confirmed that a wet towel had been tightly wrapped around his neck.

Murder Investigation Launched

Due to the circumstances surrounding the discovery, prosecutors immediately opened a murder investigation involving a minor under the age of 15. Investigators from Rennes’ specialized crime division were assigned to the case, while forensic teams and police divers searched the surrounding area for evidence.

Officials have stated that the exact sequence of events leading to the boy’s death remains unclear. Authorities have not released all investigative findings and continue to examine multiple possibilities as they work to establish what happened in the hours before the tragedy.

Two Teenagers Taken Into Custody

In a significant development, French prosecutors confirmed that two teenagers were taken into custody shortly after the boy’s body was found. A 16-year-old boy was arrested at his home, while a 15-year-old girl later presented herself to police. Investigators said the two teenagers had reportedly been seen with the victim on the day of the incident.

Authorities have not publicly disclosed the nature of the relationship between the victim and the two suspects. Prosecutors have also cautioned against speculation while detectives continue gathering evidence and conducting interviews.

Community Seeking Answers

The case has shocked residents across Rennes and attracted national attention throughout France. Witnesses described a heavy police presence near the river as investigators searched for clues in the days following the discovery. Divers were also deployed to examine the waterway and surrounding areas.

Many questions remain unanswered, including the motive behind the incident and whether additional individuals may have been involved. Officials have emphasized that the investigation remains active and that further information will be released when appropriate.

Investigation Remains Ongoing

As investigators continue reviewing evidence, the focus remains on establishing a complete timeline of events and determining precisely what occurred near the Vilaine River that afternoon.

The tragic death of the young boy has left a community mourning while authorities work to provide answers for his family and ensure that all circumstances surrounding the case are fully understood.