Pictured is an 11-year-old British girl who was shot and killed in France while having fun on a swing.
On Saturday night, as her family was enjoying a BBQ at their Saint-Herbot, Brittany, home, Solaine Thornton was shot and killed in front of her sister.
Rachael Thornton, 49, and Adrian Thornton, 52, her parents, were also hurt, and the father is still in critical condition.
A Dutch national, 71, who lived next door to the family and was regarded by locals as a recluse was detained with his wife and is still being held.
Investigators said on Monday he had tested positive for a narcotic substance.
They have not publicly confirmed the drug involved, though a source close to the investigation told the AFP news agency a large amount of cannabis was found at his home when it was searched by police.
Local officials and neighbours suggested the Dutch couple had feuded with Solaine’s parents over issues including a plot of land which borders both their properties.
Local resident Yannick told Le Télégramme de Brest: ‘We heard the bangs and we thought it was children playing with firecrackers.
‘Then the kid ran into a neighbour’s house saying: “My sister is dead, my sister is dead.”’
Marguerite Bleuzen, Mayor of Plonévez-du-Faou, which covers Saint-Herbot, said officials had intervened in the ongoing dispute in 2020 but that no major issues had arisen since.
Quimper prosecutor Carine Halley said: ‘An investigation has been opened into the murder of a minor under 15, and two attempted murders.’
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: ‘We are providing consular assistance to a British family following a shooting in France and are in contact with the local authorities.’