Overview

• The trial focused on the fatal 2018 collapses of two buildings on Rue d’Aubagne in Marseille, which exposed systemic issues of unsafe housing.
• Sixteen individuals, including property owners, a social landlord, an architect, and a former deputy mayor, faced charges including involuntary manslaughter and housing vulnerable individuals in unsafe conditions.
• Prosecutors recommended prison sentences for 10 defendants, including three years for former municipal official Julien Ruas and architect Richard Carta.
• Defense lawyers argued for acquittals, citing lack of evidence and questioning the inclusion of certain defendants, such as property owners added late in the process.
• The case has sparked public mobilization in Marseille, with local groups highlighting the broader crisis of inadequate housing and advocating for systemic change.