Gunman Kills One in Racist Attack West of Paris
French authorities are investigating a drive-by shooting in Trappes and La Verrière that left one dead and five wounded, including a 12-year-old girl.
A gunman killed one person and wounded five others, including a 12-year-old girl, during a drive-by shooting on Friday morning in the towns of Trappes and La Verrière, west of Paris. The suspect, 39-year-old Kevin T., used a World War II-era sten gun to target a petrol station, a medical center, and a children's playground. Investigators found that the suspect had also booby-trapped his home with gas canisters.
Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, condemned the event as a "racist terrorist attack," stating the gunman targeted victims based on skin color. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez characterized the shooting as a terrorist crime, while Trappes Mayor Ali Rabeh described the attack as likely Islamophobic. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen also condemned the "barbaric act" and its racist motives.
Anti-terrorism prosecutors are currently investigating the motive. The attack occurred during a period of high national tension following recent violent unrest and ahead of planned protests regarding education and the cost of living.
