Two men detained after body of French influencer found burned in vineyard

Police in southern France say they have identified the scorched body buried between rows of vines in Saint‑Gilles, near Nîmes, as that of 29‑year‑old social media star Sonia Bellina.

The influencer, who has a following of about 260,000 on TikTok, was visiting family in the area in the week before her 30th birthday. The discovery came on 12 August when a farmer reported a body, and authorities opened a murder inquiry on the same day.

Two men were taken into custody on Wednesday, with prosecutor Cécile Gensac citing evidence that suggested their direct or indirect involvement. DNA tests confirmed the victim’s identity, allowing the investigation to proceed beyond initial speculation.

Family representatives said the body had been treated in a “violent and disrespectful” manner, while a lawyer representing relatives promised to protect their privacy against online harassment.

The case has sparked intense discussion on social media, with some commenters controversially suggesting the victim had “deserved” what happened. Police have urged calm and said they will report any defamatory statements if necessary.