Jury begins deliberations in Strépy-Bracquegnies carnival tragedy trial
The jury at the Hainaut Assize Court began deliberations on Wednesday in the trial of Paolo Falzone and his cousin Antonino Falzone over the deadly 2022 crash that struck a carnival procession in Strépy-Bracquegnies. Jurors must answer 322 questions relating to the defendants' potential criminal responsibility.
"I want to say that I am aware that I drove like a madman, like an irresponsible person, but I never intended to kill anyone," Paolo Falzone said in his final statement to the court on Wednesday.
The weeks-long assize trial is now entering its final phase. Over recent weeks, jurors have heard evidence from investigators, victims, relatives, emergency responders and legal representatives concerning the events of 20 March 2022.
According to the prosecution, Paolo Falzone drove his BMW through a built-up area at around 174 kilometres per hour before ploughing into a group of carnival participants. Seven people were killed and dozens more injured.
Falzone is charged with seven counts of manslaughter, including one count alleged to have been committed with premeditation against carnival participant Frédéric D'Andrea, as well as 81 counts of attempted manslaughter. His cousin and passenger, Antonino Falzone, is on trial for negligent omission.
" I leave my fate in the hands of the jurors"
The prosecution argues that the extreme speed and circumstances of the crash justify the manslaughter charges. The defence, however, maintains that Paolo Falzone had no intention of killing anyone and was taken by surprise by the presence of the carnival procession. His lawyer has argued that the facts should be classified as offences of negligence, lack of caution and involuntary homicide, rather than manslaughter.
Under Belgian criminal law, a conviction for manslaughter would carry substantially heavier penalties than offences based on negligence alone. The jury must first determine guilt before the court considers any sentence.
In his final remarks, Antonino Falzone told the court: "I hope that this trial will help the victims process this tragedy. I leave my fate in the hands of the jurors."
A verdict is expected on Friday.
Accused Paolo Falzone and Antonino Falzone pictured during and the trial of P. and A. Falzone, at the Court of Appeal of Mons, on Wednesday 03 June 2026. © BELGA PHOTO VIRGINIE LEFOUR
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