PARIS: French prosecutors started investigation into the killing of Christophe de Margerie, CEO of French oil group Total, in an incident at Russian airport.
A Paris court would open a manslaughter inquiry following the death of De Margerie Monday night, media reported.
French accident investigation agency BEA will send three investigators to Moscow to take part in the investigations.
The 63-year-old chief executive of France’s leading oil company died after his private jet collided with a snow plough as it was taking off from Moscow’s Vnukovo airport.
French President Francois Hollande, a personal friend of De Margerie, said he was “stunned and saddened” by the news.
In a statement issued by his office, Hollande paid tribute to his dedication to promote French industry and develop the Total group.
The president also expressed his condolences to the De Margerie family, friends and Total employees.
