Trappes Shootings Prompt 70,000 Officer Deployment
France mobilizes massive security forces after a drive-by attack in a Paris suburb kills one person and injures five others.
By Tunde Bailey ·
A gunman firing from a moving vehicle killed one person and injured five others in the Paris suburb of Trappes on Friday.
President Emmanuel Macron labeled the incident a racist terror attack, stating that victims were chosen based on their skin color or perceived religion. He noted that the suspect’s comments indicated the violence was premeditated. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed the weapon was military-grade or automatic. The shooting lasted nearly 15 minutes before five anti-crime officers stopped the suspect. The shooter was later arrested in Coignieres.
Trappes Mayor Ali Rabeh said the driver moved through Trappes and neighboring La Verriere, targeting passersby at three sites including a playground. He described the event as a potential mass killing motivated by Islamophobia. Rabeh noted that one victim is of African origin and another critically wounded victim is of North African origin. The 12-year-old girl among the injured was shot eight times but remains in stable condition.
Witnesses described the chaos from nearby locations. Samy, a resident, saw a body from his window while his mother observed a gray Renault Clio speeding away amid loud noise. Forensic teams examined evidence at a local gas station. Prosecutors opened an investigation for murder linked to a terrorist enterprise. They are examining whether the victims were targeted for their real or supposed race, ethnicity, nationality, or religion. The suspect has four prior convictions that were legally erased. Three associates were taken into custody over the weekend.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu stated that all security and judicial resources are fully mobilized. Macron said the nation stands with the victims. The attack occurred during a period of heightened tension in France, with ongoing protests over living costs and recent overnight curfews. Students and labor unions plan to demonstrate again on Saturday.
Nuñez announced that approximately 70,000 police officers and gendarmes will be deployed to secure the country. Elite units will guard public buildings, supported by helicopters, armored vehicles, and water cannons. He promised an uncompromising response to any violence or vandalism. Major cultural institutions, including the Louvre, will close their doors. Art Basel Paris has also canceled its weekend program due to safety concerns.
