Breakthrough in the Jubillar case: investigators find bones after husband’s confession

©picture alliance / MAXPPP | REMY GABALDA

In the case surrounding the disappearance of Delphine Jubillar, a breakthrough finally appears to be in sight after six years. According to France24, on Thursday morning, French investigators found bones in an abandoned house in the Tarn department, near the spot where the woman was last seen in late 2020.

The discovery follows a remarkable confession by her husband, Cédric Jubillar. The man, who was sentenced last year to 30 years in prison for his wife’s murder, wrote to his lawyer earlier this month stating that he had killed Delphine and was willing to lead investigators to her body. According to authorities, he actually pointed out a location on Wednesday, as reported by Le Parisien. More than 100 gendarmes then headed to Mailhoc on Thursday morning, a small town near Cagnac-les-Mines, where the couple lived and where Delphine was last seen. Shortly after arriving, investigators found bones in an abandoned house on a local farmer’s field. Forensic analysis will now determine whether the remains are human and whether they belong to Delphine Jubillar.

The case has captivated France for years. Delphine Jubillar, a 33-year-old nurse, disappeared on the night of December 15–16, 2020, while going through a difficult divorce from her husband. Her body, the weapon, and the exact crime scene were never found, making the case exceptionally mysterious. For years, Jubillar denied any involvement in her disappearance and even stated at the trial that he had “absolutely done nothing to her,” according to Le Figaro. The recent confession therefore came as a shock to many. According to the attorney general, Jubillar said he wanted to cooperate in order to give Delphine a “dignified funeral.” The defendant’s attorney has since filed an appeal against the conviction, meaning the case will be reheard starting September 21. Until then, one question remains central: Do the bones that were found truly mark the end of one of France’s most famous missing persons cases?

©picture alliance / MAXPPP | REMY GABALDA