The deaths of a well-known couple from Villers-le-Gambon have shaken the local community, following an incident that forced the closure of the road connecting Anthée to Ermeton until mid-afternoon.
Authorities dispatched an expert from the Namur prosecutor’s office to the scene to determine the circumstances surrounding the fatalities. Officers from the Entre-Sambre et Meuse police zone conducted the initial site findings, blocking traffic in both directions to accommodate the investigation.
A local funeral service was tasked with recovering the remains of the two victims, identified as Thierry Macaux and Nicole Dewez.
Lives Dedicated to Service
Macaux and Dewez were established figures in the region, known for their long-term employment and community engagement. They were parents to one son, Johnny, and grandparents to two grandchildren.
Macaux spent many years working for the Philippeville municipality’s public works department. He was a familiar face in the area, having long been assigned to the snow-clearing service. Dewez had been employed at the Villers Monopole factory.
Together, the couple maintained a strong presence in local associative life. They were invested in the Patro de Villers and the “El Coupète” ducasse festivities.
Community Reaction
The news of their deaths has deeply impacted the region. Friends and neighbors described the couple as “appreciated by all,” noting that their absence will leave a significant void in the community.
Those close to the family characterized Macaux as a helpful and dedicated man who was always ready to maintain a spirit of service. Dewez was remembered for her jovial and cheerful temperament, maintaining high spirits despite health issues she had faced.
