The family of a British woman stabbed to death at her home in France say they "have a hunch" who murdered her. Karen Carter, 65, was attacked near her home in the southwestern village of Trémolat in April last year, but her killer remains at large. Now, 12 months on, her loved ones suspect a particular individual is responsible but have decided to let the investigation progress. Their lawyer, Reda Hammouche, stated: "[They are] leaving it to the justice system to work towards uncovering the truth."
Background of the Case
The mother-of-four lived alone and was on the verge of divorcing her South Africa-based husband, Alan Carter, 66, while seeing Jean-François Guerrier, a 75-year-old retired business executive living near her property. Reports suggest she was the victim of a jealous feud related to her love life.
Possible Suspect
Local woman Marie-Laure Autefort, 70, had reportedly "fallen madly in love" with Guerrier a year before he became romantically involved with Karen. Some suspect she could be responsible, but her brother has called the possibility "preposterous." Both Guerrier and Autefort were arrested after the killing but released without charge, and both deny any wrongdoing.
Events of the Murder
Guerrier hosted a wine tasting party on April 19, 2025, and later followed Karen to her home. He found her lying in a pool of blood, and she was declared dead at the scene. Conflicting information exists about Guerrier's movements that night. He initially said he became concerned his lover had not called him upon reaching her house, but leaked interview notes reveal he told police he had gone to spend the night at her home.
Investigation Details
Guerrier directed detectives to investigate Autefort, describing her as a woman who had fallen madly in love with him and was frustrated when the passion was not reciprocated. Autefort is said to have provided a watertight alibi. DNA samples from Guerrier, Autefort, and 15 other guests at the wine tasting party did not match any evidence. The possibility of a contract killing is also being investigated. No murder weapon has been found, suggesting the killer could have entered and left Trémolat quickly.
Alan Carter, who shares four children with Karen, acknowledged that locals have suggested he organized the murder to take control of the family estate. He said it was upsetting for the family. Prosecutor Jacques-Édouard Andrault, leading the enquiry into pre-meditated murder, confirmed the investigation continues actively.
