The parents of Quentin Deranque, a young nationalist activist who was fatally assaulted in Lyon, have called for “calm and restraint” amid a heated political debate over responsibility for his death. Their lawyer, Fabien Rajon, made the appeal on RTL radio, stating the family condemns all calls to violence and political violence.
Family in Mourning Seeks Peaceful Tribute
The parents, described as enduring a “terrible ordeal,” will not participate in a march planned for Saturday in homage to their son. Through their lawyer, they expressed hope that any attendees would gather “in calm, with restraint, and without political expression.” The march is reportedly organized by figures including Aliette Espieux, co-founder of an anti-abortion movement. Local authorities indicated the security risks of the event were under evaluation.
Legal Action Announced to Defend Memory
Fabien Rajon denounced social media commentary that he said attacks the memory and moral integrity of Quentin Deranque. He announced that legal actions would be initiated to protect the activist’s image. The lawyer sought to portray Deranque as non-violent, stating, “He was not a heavy hitter of the far right” and “hated conflict,” noting his slight physical stature.
A Complex Political Profile
Despite this characterization, reports indicate Deranque had associations with various far-right factions. His political journey included involvement with Action Française, nationalist revolutionary circles, and participation in the annual Paris march of the Comité du 9-Mai, an event known for displays of neo-fascist symbolism.
Regarding the events of February 12 that led to Deranque’s death, lawyer Rajon labeled it “a murder by an organized gang,” asserting it was not a simple fight that escalated. He maintained that while Deranque had ideas and associations, they were expressed in a “perfectly peaceful and non-violent” manner.
The case has ignited tensions in Lyon, with President Emmanuel Macron recently urging avoidance of any “spiral of violence,” and the city’s mayor expressing deep concern over the planned weekend gathering.
