Three Killed, Several Injured in Shooting in Paris, Macron Denounces ‘Odious Attack’ Against Kurds
Two were killed and four left in serious condition after gunshots were fired in a Kurdish cultural centre and nearby Kurdish cafe in the central district of Paris on Friday. A third person later succumbed to injuries, taking the death toll to three.
“There are three dead, one person in intensive care and two people with serious injuries, and the suspect, who was arrested, has also been injured, notably to the face,” Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau told reporters at the scene.
‘Odious Attack’
French President Emmanuel Macron denounced the incident as “an odious attack”. “The Kurds in France have been the target of an odious attack in the heart of Paris,” he wrote on Twitter. “Thoughts for the people who are fighting for their lives, their families and their loved ones. Thanks to the security forces for their courage and sang-froid.”
A man in his 60s was arrested shortly after the incident on the Rue d’Enghien. The motives of the gunman remain unclear, French officials said.
“The shooter has been arrested with his weapon. The danger is over,” a police source told AFP. Police had earlier urged the public to stay away from the area.
A senior Paris City Hall official confirmed a shooting had taken place. “A gun attack has taken place. Thank you to the security forces for their swift action,” tweeted deputy Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire. “Thoughts for the victims and those who witnessed this drama.”
The Paris prosecutor’s office said an investigation had been opened into murder, manslaughter and aggravated violence, adding that a 69-year-old man was arrested and in custody. Police had described him as white and known for two previous attempted murders.
