Man shot by police after stabbing spree in French city
Translated from Danish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A 34-year-old man attacked several passersby with a knife in Clermont-Ferrand, France, before being shot and apprehended by police.
- The man also attacked a police officer during his arrest, prompting officers to fire multiple shots.
- Authorities have stated there is no indication of a terrorist motive at this stage, and the suspect has prior convictions.
Clermont-Ferrand, France โ A violent incident unfolded Sunday afternoon when a 34-year-old man armed with a knife attacked multiple passersby near the Place des Carmes. The man's aggressive actions continued as he reportedly charged at a police officer with his weapon during the arrest attempt.
At least four victims are reported. No terrorist motive is mentioned at this stage.
Responding officers from the local security group fired their weapons three times. The initial shot reportedly struck the assailant's arm, but he continued his advance, leading to further shots that hit his abdomen and flank. The suspect was subdued and taken into custody while injured.
At the time of his arrest, the man allegedly 'charged at an official with his bladed weapon.'
According to the prosecutor, Eric Serfass, there is no evidence to suggest a terrorist motive behind the attacks at this time. The suspect, who has prior convictions in Clermont-Ferrand, was identified by police after a series of distinct assaults. Some attacks allegedly occurred within an apartment, while others took place on public streets.
A police officer from the proximity security group (GSP) then used his weapon three times: 'a first shot to the arm,' then two others as the attacker continued to advance, hitting 'the abdomen and the flank.'
At least four victims have been identified, including two neighbors. Their injuries range from wounds to the neck, coccyx, and clavicle. The suspect also reportedly attempted to harm other individuals during his alleged "rampage." The full extent of the injuries sustained by both the victims and the attacker is still being assessed.
The arrested man, aged 34, has already been convicted by the courts in Clermont-Ferrand.
Originally published by Berlingske in Danish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.