Body found in France is that of missing 11-year-old Lyhanna

The formal identification of Lyhanna's body brings a tragic end to a week-long intensive search in Fleurance, France. The 11-year-old girl, who vanished on May 29, was found on Thursday on a farm in Puycasquier, about 12 kilometers south of her hometown.

Forensic doctors at the National Gendarmerie's Criminal Research Institute (IRCGN) have not yet determined the cause of Lyhanna's death. While the body was found with clothing similar to what the girl was wearing when she disappeared, further examinations and expert analyses have been ordered.

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In contrast, the forensic doctors, based on their current investigations, are not yet able to indicate the causes of death for Lyhanna.

The investigation has focused on Jérôme B., 41, the father of one of Lyhanna's classmates. He is the primary suspect and is currently in provisional detention. Lyhanna was last seen getting into his car after school on May 29. Jérôme B. has a history of sexual offense allegations, with two previous cases dismissed and one opened in August 2025 still pending at the time of his arrest. The prosecutor's office in Agen noted that the suspect had not yet been questioned in the ongoing case, raising questions about potential judicial dysfunction.

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the search actions for Lyhanna led them to the east of the Gers department and to the site of a farm.