The death of Noahm in Metz: The investigation into a potentially homophobic motive is still ongoing

Metz – June 09, 2026: Noahm M., 19 years old from Talange, died on June 2 at Mercy Hospital in Metz. Prior to this, there was a serious brawl on the night from May 29 to May 30, 2026, at Republic Square. Two men, a 27-year-old uncle and a 20-year-old nephew, were arrested on June 1 and charged with intentional homicide and causing injury leading to death. A third suspect, 19 years old, was released after being questioned.

The investigation is focusing on determining a possible homophobic motive in the case. Metz prosecutor David Touvet stated that there is currently no concrete evidence for this. Meanwhile, witnesses report continuous homophobic slurs directed at Noahm, including terms such as “pedophile” and “queer” (“Schwuchtel”). The victim is believed to have been targeted due to a feminine appearance and suspected sexual orientation.

On the night of the attack, Noahm and friends encountered another group of teenagers who were listening to music there. After a brief exchange of words, the situation quickly escalated into a fight. Noahm was hit multiple times in the head. A 21-year-old cousin who tried to intervene was also injured in the face. Noahm was taken to the hospital and was found to have died after four days from the injuries.

The investigation is ongoing, and new findings may lead to adjustments in the charges. The two main suspects, who have no prior criminal record, could face life imprisonment depending on the trial outcome.

On June 2, around 250 people gathered in Metz to hold a memorial for Noahm. The organizations Couleurs Gaies and Stop Homophobie called for this demonstration to oppose violence and discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community.

The organization SOS Homophobie strongly condemned the incident and called it “a form of double violence” that is unacceptable today. They demand official recognition of the homophobic motive in the case to ensure justice for the victim and to prevent victims of LGBTI-phobia from remaining silent.

In an open letter to the President of the National Assembly, Yaël Braun-Pivet, the La France insoumise group of parliamentarians proposed a moment of silence in memory of Noahm. The representatives emphasized that the Republic cannot ignore Noahm’s death and once again warned that homophobia remains a deadly danger in France.

The authorities are continuing their investigation to clarify the circumstances of the attack as well as the motive, while ensuring that all relevant factors are thoroughly examined to bring justice for Noahm.