Paris trial opens over rugby star Aramburú's killing as suspect claims self-defense

The trial opened in Paris over the 2022 killing of former Argentina rugby international Federico Martín Aramburú, who was shot after an altercation outside a bar. Loïk Le Priol, 32, is charged with murder and Romain Bouvier, 35, with attempted murder; both prosecutors say were affiliated with a violent far-right group and face possible life sentences. Le Priol admitted firing the fatal shots but claimed he acted in self-defense, leaving the court to determine whether that justification is valid. Le Priol’s former girlfriend, Lyson Rochemir, is charged with complicity in attempted murder, while a fourth defendant, Antony Sorrentino, is accused of helping Bouvier evade arrest. Aramburú, 42, had won 22 caps for Argentina and was in Paris with former New Zealand player Shaun Hegarty when the confrontation occurred in March 2022. The verdict is expected on Sept. 25.