NewsKnife attack on schoolgirls in France: Assailant detained, victims safe

Knife attack on schoolgirls in France: Assailant detained, victims safe

In the knife attack in front of the school, two girls were injured.
In the knife attack in front of the school, two girls were injured.
Images source: © East News | FREDERICK FLORIN
Justyna Lasota-Krawczyk

18 April 2024 20:31

A man armed with a knife injured two schoolgirls in eastern France outside their school building. The victims are 6 and 11 years old. Authorities quickly apprehended the attacker.

The harrowing incident unfolded on Thursday at about 1 p.m. in front of a school in Souffelweyersheim, Alsace.

The assailant, a 29-year-old man, targeted two schoolgirls. The injured girls, aged 6 and 11, suffered from his attack but were detained by the police a few minutes following the incident.

As reported by the RMC portal, the girls sustained superficial injuries. The 11-year-old was attacked in front of the school, while the younger girl was assaulted on the nearby playground.

The perpetrator was caught at the scene shortly after. He did not resist arrest. Although he was not previously known to law enforcement, preliminary information suggests he may suffer from mental health issues and might not be fully responsible for his actions. According to RMC, there is no evidence to suggest the attack was terrorism-related.

Police Provide Reassurance

In the aftermath, the school swiftly arranged medical and psychological support for both students and staff, reassuring everyone that the threat had passed.

Parents have been informed that they can pick up their children from school.

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