Jérôme Barella, the main suspect in the death of 11-year-old Lyhanna, was not a stranger to the child. He was the father of one of the girl's classmates and reportedly had regular contact with her before the tragedy. According to Lyhanna's mother, the man frequently appeared in front of the school, in the same spot as her own daughter. He was allegedly present " every day " and would have gotten into the habit of approaching the little girl in this familiar setting.
This close relationship is now at the heart of the investigation. For investigators, the aim is to understand the exact nature of these contacts, their frequency, and how the suspect could have established a bond of trust with the child.
Snacks brought daily
Lyhanna's mother also states that Jérôme Barella regularly brought snacks to her daughter. This seemingly innocuous gesture takes on a new dimension in the context of the investigation. The man reportedly created numerous opportunities for interaction with the girl outside of the immediate family setting. He also allegedly waited for Lyhanna at the bus stop, reinforcing his repeated presence when the child was alone or leaving school. These elements paint a picture of a long-standing and close relationship with the 11-year-old girl, who was later found dead.
The same behavior with other young girls
Lyhanna's case is not isolated. Jérôme Barella has repeated similar behavior with other young girls. He sent them messages and engaged in physical contact.
A TikTok account geared towards teenage girls and children
Jérôme Barella's online behavior is also among the troubling elements uncovered in the case. On his TikTok account, he follows several hundred accounts, the majority of which belong to young teenage girls or children. His reposts also largely consist of videos showing children dancing.
A relationship of trust is possible with the child
The fact that Jérôme Barella was the father of one of Lyhanna's friends may have played a significant role. For a child, an adult known to them at school or among their friends can seem reassuring. This is precisely what investigators need to verify: Did Lyhanna agree to go with him because she knew him? Was she already in the habit of talking to him? Had the man gradually gained her trust through repeated gestures, such as snacks, messages, or his regular presence outside the school? These questions are crucial to understanding how the girl came into contact with him before her death.
The suspect remains silent
Since the beginning of the case, Jérôme Barella has remained the prime suspect. Faced with the mounting accusations and evidence, he has remained silent. The investigation continues, focusing on his movements, his phone, his online accounts, his communications with minors, and testimonies gathered from Lyhanna's circle of acquaintances.
Beyond Lyhanna's death, one question now dominates the investigation: how could an adult described as being present daily with a child, bringing her snacks, sometimes waiting for her in front of the bus and talking with other young girls, have remained in her environment without being bothered?
