A terrorist gunman fired automatic weapons from his car at random civilians in a Paris suburb, killing one person and wounding at least five others including a 12-year-old girl shot eight times, in what French authorities confirmed as a racially motivated attack targeting victims based on skin color and religion.
15-Minute Terror Rampage Through French Suburbs
The shooter drove through Trappes and La Verriere, approximately 13 miles west of Paris, firing what officials described as military-grade automatic weapons at three separate locations including a playground. The attack began around 10:30 a.m. local time on Friday and lasted nearly 15 minutes before five officers from the anti-crime brigade arrested the suspect in nearby Coignieres. Witnesses reported seeing a gray Renault Clio speeding through neighborhoods as loud bursts of gunfire rang out.
Trappes mayor Ali Rabeh described the attack as the gunman firing at random, wanting to cause a bloodbath. The mayor called it a miracle that casualties were not higher given the duration and locations targeted. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez confirmed the suspect clearly committed a terrorist crime that may have been racially motivated, with prosecutors opening an investigation for murder in connection with a terrorist enterprise.
Young Girl Fights For Life After Multiple Gunshot Wounds
The 12-year-old victim was shot eight times but remains in stable condition according to La Verriere mayor Nicolas Dainville. Three other victims sustained very serious injuries with their lives in danger. The person killed was of African origin, and one critically wounded victim is of North African origin, according to Mayor Rabeh. President Emmanuel Macron called it a racist terror attack, stating victims were targeted because of their skin color or perceived religion and for no other reason.
The National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office placed three additional individuals from the suspect’s family and circle of friends in police custody Friday evening. Officials revealed the suspect has four prior convictions that were legally expunged but did not disclose details about those crimes. Authorities have not publicly identified the suspect as the investigation continues.
France Responds With Museum Closures And Security Crackdown
Interior Minister Nunez announced officials will be absolutely uncompromising with those involved in violence, looting or vandalism, promising very firm arrests with legal consequences. Major Paris museums including the Louvre closed their doors, and Art Basel Paris canceled its weekend program due to safety concerns. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu declared the case very serious with all resources of security forces and judiciary fully mobilized. President Macron said the nation stands with victims of this terrible ordeal, emphasizing there is no place for such hatred in France.