The quiet French village of Trémolat, nestled in the Dordogne region east of Bordeaux, was the scene of a horrifying crime this week as British woman Karen Carter, 65, was found stabbed to death outside her home. The case has shocked the local community and drawn widespread attention from both French and UK media, as investigators continue a manhunt for the individual responsible for what has been described as a “frenzied attack.”
The Fatal Incident
Karen Carter was discovered lying in the driveway of her property in Trémolat at around 10 PM on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Local reports confirm that the area was sealed off by French police after she was found unresponsive by a friend. Medical responders pronounced her dead at the scene.
According to sources involved in the investigation, Carter was “covered in stab wounds,” with injuries to her chest, arm, groin, and leg. Officials believe the nature and depth of the injuries point to a violent, targeted act, rather than a random attack.
Who Found Her and What Happened Next?
Reports indicate that a male friend—believed to have spent the evening with Carter—found her collapsed outside the home. He immediately called emergency services and attempted CPR. French authorities arrived promptly, but Carter was in cardiac arrest and could not be revived.
The property and surrounding area were quickly cordoned off. Forensics officers spent hours combing the site for evidence, and a murder investigation was formally launched by the Bergerac prosecutor’s office.
Victim Profile: Who Was Karen Carter?
Karen Carter was a British national originally from the UK, who had been living in France for several years. She ran two guest houses in Trémolat, a picturesque village popular with British expats and tourists. Married and a mother of four, Carter was described by friends as energetic, kind-hearted, and deeply integrated into local life.
A Pillar of the Local Community
Beyond her professional life, Carter was known for her active participation in community projects. She volunteered at the local non-profit café, supported local charities, and played for the regional women’s over-50s football team, “Les Reines du Foot.” Just weeks prior to her death, she had returned from a football tournament in South Africa—highlighting her zest for life and commitment to her team.
Police Investigation Launched
Local police and the gendarmerie have taken charge of the murder investigation, with assistance from regional prosecutors. A forensic team is reviewing CCTV footage from nearby properties and interviewing potential witnesses.
French media reports indicate that authorities are still working to determine a clear motive for the attack. Robbery has not been ruled out, but investigators are also looking into personal connections or potential disputes that may have escalated into violence.
Possible Motives Being Considered
Police have not made any public statements about suspects, but they have said that the violence of the attack suggests it may have been personal. The presence of multiple deep stab wounds raises concerns about a motive that could be emotional or premeditated.
Key Details from the Autopsy
While the full autopsy report is pending, early examinations confirm at least five stab wounds. No murder weapon has been recovered at this time. Forensic specialists are conducting DNA analysis and reviewing Karen’s last known whereabouts for additional clues.
No Arrests Yet, But One Person Questioned
The man who found Karen Carter was taken in for questioning but has since been released. Police clarified that this was a procedural step and that the man is cooperating with authorities. Investigators have not named any suspects or issued warrants as of yet.
Community in Mourning
The tranquil village of Trémolat has been left devastated by the murder. Friends and neighbors gathered for a candlelit vigil on Wednesday evening, placing flowers outside Karen’s home and sharing stories of her generosity and spirit. Messages of condolence have poured in from across France and the UK.
Family Response and UK Involvement
Karen’s family, currently in contact with British authorities, are receiving support from the UK Foreign Office. A spokesperson confirmed that consular assistance is being provided and that the family is “heartbroken and seeking answers.”
Rise in Violence Against British Expats?
This tragedy has prompted concern about the safety of British nationals living abroad, particularly in rural France, where violent crime is relatively rare but not unheard of. While no pattern has been officially identified, recent years have seen sporadic reports of expat-targeted crimes across Europe.
Security Advice for British Nationals in France
Following the incident, the UK government has advised British citizens living in France to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behavior. The Foreign Office also recommends:
- Installing outdoor surveillance (CCTV or smart doorbells)
- Limiting travel at night in remote areas
- Ensuring all doors and gates are locked
- Getting to know local authorities and emergency procedures
More detailed safety tips can be found on the UK Government’s travel advice page.
How the Public Can Help
French authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. This includes residents who may have seen suspicious activity near Karen Carter’s home or who possess private CCTV or dashcam footage.
Anyone with knowledge related to the case is asked to contact the local police or submit tips anonymously through France’s national police website.
Conclusion
The brutal killing of Karen Carter in Dordogne is a tragedy that has shocked her family, friends, and the international community. As police continue their investigation, one thing is clear: a vibrant, beloved woman has had her life cut short in a place she called home. Justice must be served—not only for Karen, but for the peace and safety of the community she helped build.
FAQs
Q1: Who was Karen Carter?
A: A 65-year-old British mother of four living in Trémolat, France. She ran guest houses and was active in local community life.
Q2: What happened to her?
A: She was found stabbed multiple times outside her home on April 29, 2025.
Q3: Has anyone been arrested?
A: No. A male friend was questioned but released. The investigation is ongoing.
Q4: Are there any suspects?
A: Authorities have not named suspects but are actively pursuing leads.
Q5: What can the public do?
A: Share any information with the police, including surveillance footage or eyewitness accounts.
