(Photo courtesy of Anadolu)
BRUSSELS — The family of a 59-year-old man who died after participating in a demonstration in Paris has filed a complaint against police officers over allegations that exposure to tear gas may have contributed to his death.
Christophe M. died on October 17 in Paris’ 10th arrondissement following demonstrations that turned violent as protesters clashed with police, according to French broadcaster BFMTV.
The family’s lawyer, Youri Krassoulia, said Tuesday that the results of an autopsy and the opening of a judicial investigation raised questions about whether tear gas exposure played a role in the man’s death.
According to a complaint filed Monday by Christophe’s parents and partner, he was exposed to large amounts of tear gas at Place de la Republique during confrontations between demonstrators and security forces.
The family accused police officers of alleged intentional violence by a public official resulting in death without intent to kill.
Krassoulia called for a thorough investigation, citing scientific studies examining the potential effects of tear gas exposure on the cardiovascular system.
An autopsy conducted last week determined that Christophe died from “acute cardiorespiratory failure in the context of a pre-existing heart condition,” the Paris prosecutor’s office told BFMTV on Monday.
The examination also found no evidence of injuries associated with grabbing, defensive movements, or physical restraint.
However, the autopsy findings did not establish whether tear gas exposure contributed to his death.
Authorities have ordered additional forensic examinations as the investigation continues under the supervision of an investigating judge.
The incident occurred during nationwide demonstrations on October 17 that drew approximately 550,000 participants across France.
The protests were marked by violent confrontations between demonstrators and police, with several vehicles set on fire and shops looted.
Authorities arrested more than 2,000 people during the unrest.
The investigation is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding Christophe’s death, including whether police actions or exposure to crowd-control chemicals contributed to the fatal incident.
