Paolo Falzone sentenced to 27 years over Strépy-Bracquegnies carnival tragedy
Driver Paolo Falzone has been sentenced to 27 years in prison by the Hainaut Court of Assizes for the 2022 Strépy-Bracquegnies carnival tragedy, in which seven people were killed and dozens injured. His passenger, Antonino Falzone, received a two-year suspended sentence.
On 20 March 2022, Falzone drove his BMW through a built-up area at 174 km/h before ploughing into a group of carnival participants. Last week, the 38-year-old was found guilty of seven counts of intentional manslaughter, 79 counts of attempted manslaughter and failing to assist 54 people in distress, including five minors.
The prosecution had sought a 27-year prison sentence, while the defence argued for a maximum sentence of 25 years. In handing down its ruling, the jury found no mitigating circumstances and cited Falzone's "disregard for human life".
Antonino Falzone was convicted of negligent omission and given a two-year suspended sentence, in line with the prosecution's request. The court rejected his lawyer's request for an autonomous probation sentence, finding it neither proportionate nor appropriate.
Following the verdict, the prosecution requested Paolo Falzone's immediate arrest. Until now, he had remained free under electronic monitoring.
His lawyer opposed the request. "He is not causing any problems and has behaved well," he said. "He is also looking after his young son while his partner is working. He needs to arrange that in the coming days."
Falzone himself asked whether he could serve his sentence under electronic monitoring. "I will respect my conditions even more," he told the court.
The court retired briefly to consider the request for his immediate arrest.
Paolo Falzone at the assize court of Hainaut in Mons, 17 June 2026 © BELGA PHOTO VIRGINIE LEFOUR
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