A tragic knife attack at a market in Mulhouse, France, on Saturday left one person dead and several others injured, including three police officers. Authorities have confirmed that the attack was an act of terrorism.
The Attack
The suspect, a 37-year-old man, carried out the stabbing at the covered canal market. Reports say he shouted “Allahu Akbar” during the attack. He was quickly taken into custody by the police.
The attacker was already known to law enforcement and was on a terror watchlist. Before the attack, he was supposed to sign a judicial control form at the police station as part of his house arrest conditions. Instead, he refused to sign and launched the attack, injuring multiple people.
Victims and Injuries
A civilian who tried to stop the attacker tragically lost his life. Three municipal police officers were also injured while attempting to neutralize the suspect. Two parking attendants suffered serious injuries as well.
Suspect’s Background
Authorities revealed that the suspect was flagged on the FSPRT list, a database created in 2015 to monitor individuals at risk of becoming radicalized. This list was introduced after the deadly terrorist attacks on the Charlie Hebdo offices and a Jewish supermarket in Paris.
Authorities’ Response
Mulhouse Mayor Michèle Lutz addressed the incident, saying, “Horror has gripped our city. A man attacked passersby at the market with a knife. Several municipal police officers were injured while trying to stop him.”
The French government has increased security measures across the country following the attack. Counterterrorism officials are investigating the suspect’s motives and background.
France’s History of Knife Attacks
This attack adds to a growing number of knife-related terrorist incidents in France over the past decade. The country has been on high alert, with authorities constantly monitoring individuals who pose a potential security threat.
The people of Mulhouse are mourning the loss of an innocent civilian, while authorities work to ensure public safety. The injured police officers and civilians are receiving medical care, and investigations continue to determine if the suspect had any accomplices or further plans.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing challenge of preventing such attacks and ensuring the safety of citizens in public spaces.
