Trial date confirmed for 2027

The trial related to the death of Mathis, who was killed by a reckless driver under the influence of nitrous oxide in Lille, will take place in January 2027. The date of the trial of the driver, accused of mortally hitting Mathis while he was crossing a boulevard in Lille during the night of October 31 to November 1, 2025, is now known. Mathis's parents confirmed on Wednesday, October 28, to BFM Grand Lille that the trial will take place on January 26, 2027, at the Lille court.

Mathis's father shares his feelings

Mathis's father, Emmanuel, stated to BFM Grand Lille that he was eager to know the date but now feels stress and must prepare. He said it will be difficult again and that he could never forgive the act. He emphasized that what happened is not an accident and that he does not want to hear the word "involuntary." He claimed the driver refused to comply, ran three red lights, and did not brake at all. Mathis jumped 30 meters long and 4 meters high, which Emmanuel said is not excusable.

Driver faces serious charges

The suspect, a 31-year-old man "known for traffic offenses," was placed under formal investigation for traffic-related homicide with three aggravating circumstances: manifestly deliberate violation of a safety and prudence obligation, traffic offense, and refusal to comply. According to the prosecutor of Lille, Samuel Finielz, Mathis was "struck by a vehicle moving at high speed." The investigation established "the consumption of nitrous oxide concurrent with the driving of the vehicle."

Father pushes for stricter nitrous oxide laws

Mathis's father has been fighting for nitrous oxide to be recognized as a "narcotic" and testified about his feelings a few days before the anniversary of the incident. He said it is difficult and that October has not been easy. He noted that progress has been made regarding nitrous oxide, as it can no longer be sold or transported, but it is missing the fact that it must be considered a narcotic product. He mentioned there is another battle to be fought: that of the suppliers, noting that cartridges with flashy colors are likely not for cooking but to attract young people.

Trial will include passenger

Mathis's father expressed hope that the driver will be sentenced in accordance with the facts attributed to him, although he has never met the man accused of killing his son. He noted that the driver had a passenger with him, so there will be two people at the trial, whom he will finally meet. He added that they did not know at first that there were two people involved and that the driver will therefore be prosecuted for failure to assist in danger. The driver has a record, and Emmanuel said he must now be aware of his actions. He emphasized that Mathis was just there to have fun with his friends for Halloween.

Parents reflect on their son

Emmanuel described Mathis as a "ray of sunshine" and said he could not imagine his life without a child. He noted that Mathis was joyful and wanted to be famous, but now it is for a bad reason. He stated, "We do not want another Mathis... so our fight continues." After the incident, the young man's parents met with the Minister of the Interior Laurent Nuñez and the Attorney General Gérald Darmanin.