Murder of Louise in Essonne: Owen L. Confesses to the Crime, Motive Still Unclear

Troubling past and family connections under investigation

The main suspect in the murder of Louise, an 11-year-old schoolgirl found stabbed to death in a forest in Essonne, confessed to the crime this Wednesday morning during his police custody. Owen L., a 23-year-old man, was arrested on Monday, February 10, in Épinay-sur-Orge, where he resides and where Louise attended school. Following a neighborhood investigation and identification through surveillance footage, investigators confirmed that he was near the victim just before her disappearance.

Louise’s body had been discovered in the Bois des Templiers, and early forensic analysis revealed Owen L.’s DNA on the victim’s hands. Additionally, cuts on the suspect’s fingers further strengthened the suspicions of the investigators. The young man, initially silent, eventually confessed to the murder, though his motive remains unclear. According to some sources, he acted alone, but the investigation continues to determine the deeper reasons for his actions.

A Troubling Past and Family Connections Under Investigation
Owen L. was no stranger to the police, having previously been involved in petty crimes and violence. One of his neighbors described him as a “normal” young man, but with problematic behavior. Testimonies also revealed family conflicts, particularly with his sister, who had filed a report against him for violence. His girlfriend, who is currently in custody, confirmed that he had admitted to her that he had stabbed someone, which may make him responsible for both the crime and the secret.

The investigation also raises questions about his behavior. Owen L. is described as short-tempered and impulsive, particularly due to his addiction to video games. Sources close to the case claim that the young man was known to react violently to frustrations, sometimes threatening to pull out a knife. A psychiatric evaluation is underway to assess his mental state at the time of the crime.

The DNA found at the crime scene, contradictions in his statements, and his concerning past paint a picture of a suspect whose motivations remain unclear. As the investigation continues, Owen L.’s family—his father, mother, and girlfriend—remain in police custody for failure to report the crime. The family, especially the girlfriend, could play a key role in clarifying this tragedy.