France: Killed in knife attack in Nice

Several people were killed and injured in a knife attack in the southern French coastal city of Nice. The Paris counter-terrorism prosecutor took over the investigation.

According to previous information, three people were killed in a knife attack in Nice. That’s what the police said. According to media reports, there are more injured. The incident occurred in and near the Notre-Dame church, the BFMTV news channel reported.

Therefore, two people died in the church. A third victim fled, but later succumbed to his injuries, according to law enforcement circles.

Police advised avoiding the area and did not initially comment on details. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin confirmed a police operation in central Nice and announced an emergency meeting. President Emmanuel Macron wanted to go to the crime scene immediately.

Prosecutor takes charge of the investigation

Nice Mayor Christian Estrosi tweeted that the alleged perpetrator had been arrested. He was injured in detention and taken to hospital. Based on initial knowledge, the alleged attacker acted alone. According to Estrosi, the act is like a terrorist attack. It “certainly” fits the manner of the murder of history teacher Samuel Paty a few days ago. Estrosi told reporters that the victims were killed in “horrible ways.”

The mayor said the attacker shouted “Allahu akbar” (“God is great”) several times when he was arrested. The man’s gesture left “no doubt”.

The Paris anti-terrorist prosecutor’s office has now taken over the investigation of the case. Among other things, it concerns the murder charge in connection with a terrorist project.

Interior Minister Darmanin had already warned on several occasions of a high risk of terrorism in the country. Just two weeks ago, a teacher was brutally murdered in a Paris suburb. The crime had caused horror throughout the country. Tens of thousands took to the streets to show their solidarity.

With information from Marcel Wagner, ARD-Studio Paris