Two detained after French influencer's scorched body found in vineyard

What the report says

French prosecutors say two men have been detained in connection with the death of Sonia Bellina, a 29-year-old social media influencer whose burned body was found in a vineyard in Saint-Gilles, near Nîmes, in southern France. The local prosecutor, Cécile Gensac, said the arrests were made because investigators found evidence suggesting the men may have been directly or indirectly involved. Police had already opened a murder inquiry after a farmer discovered the body on 12 August.

Authorities confirmed Bellina’s identity only after further investigation and DNA testing. BBC World News reported that Bellina had around 260,000 followers on TikTok and had been staying with family in the region ahead of her 30th birthday. The prosecutor said the name had already been circulating widely before the official confirmation.

The case has prompted intense attention online and in French media. Bellina’s family lawyer, Mourad Battikh, told reporters the body had been left in a degrading manner and described the killing as exceptionally brutal. The family has asked for privacy and said it is facing severe distress. According to BBC World News, online speculation and hostile comments have also circulated since the body was found. More broadly, the case highlights the scrutiny often surrounding violent deaths of public figures, especially when details are still being investigated.