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The late Nathalie Maillet, head of the Spa-Francorchamps racetrack
Photo: imago sportfotodienst / imago / Reporters
Nathalie Maillet, managing director of the traditional race track in Spa, Belgium, was found dead on Sunday night in her house in Gouvy, around 40 kilometers south of the track.
According to initial findings, the 51-year-old was the victim of a violent crime.
With her, two other bodies were found, which are said to be her husband Franz Dubois and a friend of Maillets.
Investigators are currently assuming that the man shot the two women and then directed himself, according to a statement from the local prosecutor.
The exact circumstances of death are the subject of the investigation.
The mayor of Gouvy said the police informed him Saturday night of a double homicide and subsequent suicide at Nathalie Maillet's home.
Rumors of relationship act
According to a report in the newspaper "Le Soir", the second dead was the lawyer and university professor Ann Lawrence Durviaux from Namur, Belgium.
Maillet and Dubois had been married for 17 years, according to media reports.
Shortly before the violent crime, the couple is said to have attended an evening event.
"Incredible Drama"
“I am shocked and saddened by the sudden death of Nathalie Maillet.
All my thoughts and my solidarity go to her family, her friends and the Spa-Francorchamps teams, «said Jean Todt, President of the Fia, the world’s automobile association.
“We all can't believe this drama yet.
Our thoughts are now with Nathalie's family and friends.
We have lost a great lady, a passionate leader in motorsport, "said Melchior Wathelet, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps:" She was a great boss - and we will all miss her.
Yes, Nathalie had become the face of the racetrack worldwide. "
Numerous companions mourned the manager's death on social media.
On August 29th, Formula 1 will take part in the first race after the summer break in Spa.
Maillet has been managing director of the race track since 2016.
ala / sid