Belgium police chase deaths: justice delayed 8 years for Sabrina Ouassim

The Nivelles correctional court is examining the role of a canine unit officer during two hearings. He had been sentenced on appeal to six months in prison for involuntary manslaughter, with the court finding he should have anticipated the deadly danger of his roadblock. In March 2025, the Court of Cassation annulled this decision, leading to this new trial.

On Bladi.net : Brussels Police Officers on Trial for Fatal 2017 Chase That Killed Two Young People

The tragedy unfolded on May 9, 2017 around 9:30 p.m. Spotted in Ixelles for excessive speed, a faulty turn signal and non-regulation shoes, Ouassim, 24, and Sabrina, 20, fled on a motorcycle. Chased by a patrol, they emerged from the Bailli tunnel exit. A third officer then blocked the right lane with his van, causing an extremely violent collision that would cost the two young people their lives.

Meanwhile, the case against the two pursuing officers closed at the national level. Convicted at first instance, they were ultimately acquitted in November 2024. The support committee therefore filed a petition with the European Court of Human Rights in August 2025, stating in a statement that "all domestic remedies have been exhausted, without any responsibility being recognized for them."

On Bladi.net : Belgian Police Officers Face Trial for Fatal Motorcycle Chase Deaths

Pending the Nivelles judgment, the victims’ families denounce motorized pursuits that suffer from a "lack of clear framework and effective control." The collective links its fight to the struggle against disproportionate use of force. "We refuse to let these deaths go unanswered. We refuse to normalize potentially deadly practices," the organization warns.