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14-Year-Old Drowns in Briançon During 'Mattress Surfing' Stunt as Driver Faces Court

Authorities opened an involuntary manslaughter case after the driver admitted responsibility.

Overview

  • The boy was thrown into the Cerveyrette during a U-turn on October 24 while riding a bed base tied behind a car, and rescuers recovered his body the next day.
  • The 18-year-old driver acknowledged his role in custody, was placed under judicial control, and will be summoned before the correctional court in Gap.
  • Prosecutors say the driver is licensed and insured, had no record with justice, and tested negative for alcohol and drugs at the time of the incident.
  • A 17-year-old was briefly detained to assess possible complicity, and his custody was lifted as investigators continue reviewing his case file.
  • The episode is linked to a social-media challenge known as 'mattress surfing' or 'car surfing,' and a Leetchi fundraiser was set up to support the family.