In brief
After a car‑borne shooting that killed one and injured five in Trappes and La Verrière, French anti‑terrorism officials moved the suspect for psychiatric assessment. President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack as a “racist terrorist” assault. The evaluation, lasting about 48 hours, will determine if the perpetrator remains in custody. Findings also revealed drugs in his system and a stash of extremist literature at his home. The case underscores the escalating threat of xenophobic violence in France.
A man suspected of a deadly gun attack near Paris has left custody and been placed under psychiatric observation, according to French anti‑terrorism officials.
Friday’s attack saw one person killed and five others injured when an assailant opened fire from his car – first in Trappes, then near La Verrière – seemingly targeting people of migrant origin.
The suspect, 39‑year‑old Kevin T, will be observed to gauge whether his mental health allows for continued interrogation. The National Anti‑Terrorist Prosecutor’s Office (PNAT) said the move followed guidance from a psychiatric expert.
President Emmanuel Macron described the incident as a "racist terrorist attack" and said it marks "a turning point in the life of our Republic and our nation."
PNAT noted the suspect’s blood contained cannabis and cocaine. Reports from Le Monde and AFP also mention the discovery of a Bible, a Quran and a copy of Adolf Hitler’s Mein Kampf at his home.
Victims and Community Response
The priest for Pengo Bossio Wangi, the one fatality, said the psychiatric observation was "very rare" and implied a desire to portray the suspect as criminally irresponsible rather than deliberate.
Wangi, a 26‑year‑old French‑Congolese mixed‑martial‑arts practitioner, was named the sole fatality. His club paid tribute, saying, "On the mats as off them, he was one of those who lead by example... His smile, his energy and his generosity will remain etched in our walls and in our hearts."
Three of the injured remained in serious condition, including a 12‑year‑old girl. The mayor of La Verrière confirmed the girl was "doing better" and that another resident was recovering while a third remained critical.
Background on the Suspect
Prior to the attack, the suspect had known police but not intelligence services. PNAT stated he had four prior convictions that were "automatically expunged." He allegedly used an old semi‑automatic weapon during the attack, firing in bursts from his car window.
The psychiatric evaluation is expected to last about 48 hours, after which authorities will decide whether the suspect remains in custody.
