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High Court Rules 17-Year-Old's Ashes to Be Scattered

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The High Court ruled that Gabrielle Barbus, a 17-year-old who died by suicide, should be cremated against his father Stefan Barbus's wishes.
Stefan Barbus, a Roman Orthodox Christian, argued cremation jeopardizes his son's soul.
Gabrielle's mother Georgia Opritescu and brother Antonio supported cremation, citing Gabrielle's personality and desire for freedom.
The judge ruled for Opritescu, stating Gabrielle likely preferred cremation and that his ashes should be scattered in a place in Devon he loved.

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Story summary

The High Court ruled that Gabrielle Barbus, a 17-year-old who died by suicide, should be cremated against his father Stefan Barbus's wishes.
Stefan Barbus, a Roman Orthodox Christian, argued cremation jeopardizes his son's soul.
Gabrielle's mother Georgia Opritescu and brother Antonio supported cremation, citing Gabrielle's personality and desire for freedom.
The judge ruled for Opritescu, stating Gabrielle likely preferred cremation and that his ashes should be scattered in a place in Devon he loved.