French anti-terrorism prosecutors have launched an investigation following a series of drive-by shootings in the suburbs southwest of Paris that left one person dead and four others critically injured.
The attacks occurred in the neighboring towns of Trappes and La Verrière. According to local officials, a gunman firing from a vehicle targeted several public locations, including a petrol station, a health centre, and a playground, before moving through multiple neighborhoods.
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed that the suspected shooter had been taken into police custody. Local authorities reported that the 39-year-old suspect was apprehended on a main road in nearby Coignières. While the suspect was previously known to law enforcement, officials noted he was not on the radar of France’s intelligence services.
Investigation into Potential Motives
The National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor’s Office (PNAT) announced it has taken charge of the inquiry, treating the incident as a suspected murder in connection with a terrorist enterprise. Prosecutors are examining potential aggravated circumstances, including whether the targets were selected based on real or perceived race, ethnicity, nationality, or religion. The investigation also covers the possession of a Category A military-grade weapon and conspiracy to prepare violent acts.
Trappes Mayor Ali Rabeh stated that the deceased individual was of African heritage and one of the critically injured victims was of North African descent. However, the anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office urged caution regarding conclusions about the victims’ identities and the shooter’s precise motives.
Reactions and Ongoing Inquiries
Local officials reported that four injured victims, including a 12-year-old girl, remain in critical condition. Police officers indicated that the assailant utilized an older-style semi-automatic firearm capable of burst fire.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez described the event as a murderous rampage while emphasizing that the underlying motive remains unconfirmed. President Emmanuel Macron extended his support to those affected, stating that the nation stands beside the victims and their families during this ordeal.
Source: BBC News
