French launch investigation into Bunmi's 'manslaughter'

A French public prosecutor has ordered a criminal investigation into the death of Bunmi Shagaya, the 11-year-old British girl who drowned during a school trip to Normandy.

The initial investigation for manslaughter has been brought against "persons unknown", but judicial sources say that action could eventually be taken against one or more of the five teachers from Brixton, south London, who accompanied Bunmi. Action is also possible against the leisure centre where she died.

The inquiry will be led by an investigating magistrate, who has not yet been named. He or she will have substantial, independent powers to gather evidence and summon witnesses. The magistrate will then recommend whether charges should be brought. On past experience, the investigation could take up to 12 months or more.

By ordering the investigation, the public prosecutor in Rouen has decided that prima facie evidence exists that Bunmi's death may have been caused by criminal negligence.

Bunmi's body was found in lake Caniel, near Dieppe, last Thursday, after a three-day search. At first there were fears that she may have been abducted. An official autopsy confirmed that she had died by drowning and that there were no signs of violence on her body.

The girl was last seen by the lakeside, where she had been swimming with some of her 40 classmates from Hillmead primary school.

The investigating magistrate is expected to summon the six adults – a headteacher, four teachers and a dinner lady – who accompanied the party. He or she may also wish to interview some of the children who swam with Bunmi. If so, the magistrate might travel to London.

The inquiry will also focus on the safety of the swimming area at the leisure centre and nature park at Cany-Barville, where Bunmi died.

Officials of the leisure centre have told the initial inquiry that they are convinced that Bunmi must have drowned away from the roped swimming zone, which is watched by lifeguards. Her body was, however, found within the boundaries of the swimming area.