Full Breakdown
Eric Robic, Convicted in Hit-and-Run Death of Israeli Woman, Shot Dead in Paris
4/16/2026, 9:48:58 PM
Fatal Incident and Background
Eric Robic, a 51-year-old French man, was shot dead on Thursday morning in a targeted attack in Neuilly-sur-Seine, a suburb of Paris. The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. when two assailants on a motorized scooter approached Robic and opened fire before fleeing the scene. Emergency services attempted to resuscitate him, but he was pronounced dead shortly after. Robic was previously convicted for the 2011 hit-and-run death of Israeli woman Lee Zeitouni in Tel Aviv, a case that had significant diplomatic repercussions between France and Israel.
The 2011 Hit-and-Run Case
On September 16, 2011, Robic was driving under the influence of alcohol and at excessive speed when he struck Zeitouni, a 25-year-old Pilates instructor, as she crossed the street. Following the incident, Robic and his passenger, Claude Khayat, fled to France, prompting outrage in Israel and a diplomatic dispute over France's refusal to extradite its citizens. In 2014, a French court convicted Robic of aggravated involuntary manslaughter and sentenced him to five years in prison. Khayat received a 15-month sentence for failing to assist Zeitouni after the accident.
Legal Troubles and Criminal History
Robic's criminal history extended beyond the hit-and-run case. He had 12 prior convictions, including financial offenses and involvement in an international luxury car fraud scheme worth €1 million. In 2018, he was detained on suspicion of corruption related to preferential treatment in prison. Despite his extensive criminal background, he was not prosecuted for a significant tax fraud scheme that reportedly caused billions in damages to the European Union.
Official Statements & Responses
Following Robic's death, Lee Zeitouni's father, Itzik Zeitouni, expressed a sense of closure, stating, “I feel like justice was served today.” He highlighted Robic's attempts to offer money to the family to drop their lawsuit, which they refused. French authorities have not yet identified any suspects or motives for the shooting, and the investigation is being led by the Paris JIRS (Specialized Interregional Jurisdiction) prosecutor's office.
Criticism & Opposition
The circumstances surrounding Robic's death have raised questions about the potential motives behind the assassination. While some speculate it may be linked to his criminal activities, there is currently no official indication connecting the shooting to his past case in Israel. Local residents expressed shock at the violent nature of the incident, with one describing it as frightening.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
As of now, there are no confirmed suspects or motives for Robic's assassination. The investigation is ongoing, and further details may emerge as authorities continue to gather evidence.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I feel a certain relief, a circle that cried out for justice has been closed,” — Itzik Zeitouni, Father of Lee Zeitouni
- “I’m shocked, and it’s frightening,” — Local Resident, Paris Match
This incident marks a significant chapter in the ongoing narrative surrounding Eric Robic and the tragic death of Lee Zeitouni, highlighting the complexities of justice and accountability across borders.
