French authorities say a man suspected of killing his wife and four young children was arrested on Monday. The victims, a 35-year-old mother and four children aged between 9 months and 10 years, were discovered Monday night after neighbors reported they could not reach the family. The Meaux Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed there were no signs of forced entry at the apartment, and the husband, who was not at home at the time, remained the primary person of interest as investigators reviewed surveillance footage and neighborhood inquiries.
The investigation quickly moved forward as officers traced the suspect to his father’s residence, where he was detained on Tuesday morning. The arrest occurred approximately 30 kilometers from Meaux, in the town of Saint-Denis of Sevran, according to a statement from the prosecution issued in the early hours of the day. Authorities stated that the suspect had been located at his father’s home and was taken into custody without further incident as part of the ongoing inquiry.
In a separate record, prosecutors noted that the detainee had a history of psychological issues. In 2019, he allegedly attacked his wife with a knife, a case that was archived after medical reasons were cited. While the archival determination limited further action at the time, investigators said today’s case is being treated as critical and ongoing, with family dynamics and possible warning signs under review as part of the broader inquiry. The public inquiry continues as prosecutors work to determine a precise timeline and motive, while relatives and neighbors process the tragedy that unfolded within the Meaux area.
The case has drawn attention across the Paris region as authorities emphasize the importance of early warning signs and community vigilance. While the investigation remains active, prosecutors have stressed that no additional arrests have been announced and that updates will be provided as the inquiry progresses and more evidence is assessed.