Ali Rabeh: Trappes attack was first attempted mass killing motivated by Islamophobia

A gunman firing from a moving vehicle killed one person and injured at least five others in Trappes, a suburb southwest of Paris, on Friday morning. The attack, which lasted just under 15 minutes, ended when five officers from the anti-crime brigade stopped the suspect in the nearby town of Coignieres. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez stated that the weapon used was military-grade or at least automatic.

President Emmanuel Macron characterized the incident as a "racist terror attack" following a meeting with local officials and residents. He noted that the suspect's statements indicated premeditation. "These people were targeted because of their skin color or perceived religion, and for no other reason," Macron said. He added that there is no place for such violence in France.

Trappes mayor Ali Rabeh told BFMTV that the suspect drove through Trappes and the neighboring town of La Verriere, firing at random. Rabeh said the gunman targeted passersby at three distinct locations, including a playground. He described the low casualty count as a miracle and suggested the event was likely one of the first attempted mass killings motivated by Islamophobia. Rabeh confirmed that the victim was of African origin, while one critically wounded survivor is of North African origin.

Local witnesses described the chaos. Samy, a resident, observed a body on the ground from his window. His mother reported seeing a gray Renault Clio speed past the house while hearing loud bangs. Forensic teams examined evidence at a nearby gas station. Officials initially reported four injured but later revised the count to five, with three in serious condition. The mayor of La Verriere, Nicolas Dainville, confirmed that a 12-year-old girl was shot eight times and is currently in stable condition.

Prosecutors have opened an investigation for murder in connection with a terrorist enterprise. They are determining if the victims were targeted based on their real or supposed race, ethnicity, nationality, or religion. The National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor's Office placed three associates of the suspect in custody Friday evening. The suspect, who has not been publicly identified, has four prior convictions that have been legally expunged.

The shooting occurred during a period of heightened tension in France. The country has experienced mass protests over the cost of living and a week of overnight curfews. Demonstrations by students, labor unions, and Yellow Vest activists are scheduled for Saturday. Nuñez announced the deployment of approximately 70,000 police officers and gendarmes, supported by elite units, helicopters, and armored vehicles. He promised an absolutely uncompromising response to any violence or looting.

Major institutions have adjusted their operations in response to the security measures. The Louvre and other major Paris museums will remain closed. Art Basel Paris has canceled its weekend program due to safety concerns.