Marseille: Man critically injured in shooting in northern districts

A 21-year-old man is fighting for his life after being shot multiple times in Marseille's 14th arrondissement on Thursday evening. Responders found the victim with several gunshot wounds and injuries that appeared to be from a rifle butt.

The incident occurred around 6 p.m. on Avenue des Arnavaux. The victim was transported to North Hospital, where his condition was described as critical, with his life in danger.

Authorities are investigating the shooting as a potential "règlement de comptes," a term often used in France to describe a settling of scores, frequently linked to organized crime or drug trafficking.

This shooting occurs amidst a concerning trend of violence in the Bouches-du-Rhône region. As of this year, 20 people have died in drug-related homicides in the department, with 17 of those deaths occurring within Marseille itself. This statistic highlights the ongoing challenges with organized crime and drug-related violence in the city.