Police launch homicide investigation after Briton found dead at his home in Burgundy
The 78-year-old man’s body was discovered in Nièvre earlier this month
A homicide inquiry has been launched into the death of a British national at his home in the Burgundy region of central France.
The 78-year-old lived alone in a central-village property in Champlemy (Nièvre), where his body was discovered earlier this month (August 1).
Residents in the commune raised the alarm after he was not seen for several days.
The victim has been identified as Gilwyn James, who also had French citizenship.
He moved to the village 10 years ago but had lived in France for more than three decades.
He formerly worked on the inland waterways in France as a commercial carrier, transporting grain and fertiliser.
Friends and neighbours describe him as a kind and gregarious person, who was well liked and integrated in the local community.
He was also popular among other foreign nationals living in the area as a regular attendee of a monthly French/English conversation class.
One member of the class, who did not wish to be named, said: “It’s shocking. He always had a big smile for everyone, interesting anecdotes. He was just a lovely man. I can’t imagine why anyone would do this.”
Police have yet to release details about the cause of death but said a homicide investigation is ongoing.
Champlemy has a population of 346 and is located 40km north of the prefecture, Nevers.
