A key suspect in the 2016 Paris robbery of Kim Kardashian has died unexpectedly, just weeks before the case was set to go to trial. Marceau Baum-Gertner, 72, who had long been linked to organised crime and was accused of helping sell the stolen jewellery, passed away in Paris earlier this March under circumstances that have raised serious questions.
Baum-Gertner, known in the criminal world by the nickname “Nez Râpé” or “Rough Nose,” had a long history of convictions, including theft and forgery.
He had been awaiting trial under judicial supervision after being released on bail. French authorities are now investigating the possibility that his death may not have been from natural causes. Reports suggest Baum-Gertner had been receiving threats from others involved in the robbery, who feared he might disclose critical information once the trial began.
The robbery, which shocked the world, took place during Paris Fashion Week in October 2016. Kim Kardashian, who was staying at the exclusive Hôtel de Pourtalès, was ambushed by armed men dressed as police officers. She was bound, gagged, and locked inside a bathroom while the robbers made off with an estimated $6 million in jewellery, including her $4 million diamond engagement ring from then-husband Kanye West. Despite extensive investigations, only one piece of jewellery, a small cross pendant, has ever been recovered.
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Kim Kardashian is expected to testify in person as the trial moves forward. Over the years, she has been open about the trauma she suffered during the attack, describing it as a moment that fundamentally changed how she approaches fame, wealth, and her personal safety. Her testimony will be a central part of the proceedings, which are scheduled to continue through the end of May.
Even with Baum-Gertner’s sudden death, French prosecutors are determined to proceed against the ten remaining defendants. Many of them are referred to as the “Grandpa Robbers” due to their advanced ages, but authorities have emphasised the serious, violent nature of their crimes.
Baum-Gertner’s death adds another layer of complexity to an already high-profile case, leaving many to wonder what secrets might have been buried with him. As the trial begins, the world will be watching closely to see if justice will finally be served for Kim Kardashian, nearly a decade after one of the most infamous celebrity robberies of modern times.
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