12-year-old girl shot eight times in Paris suburb attack

One person died and five others were wounded when a gunman opened fire from a car in the Paris suburb of Trappes on Friday morning.

The suspect fired in bursts from a vehicle at approximately 10:30 a.m. local time. Authorities stated the shooting lasted just under 15 minutes before five officers from the anti-crime brigade stopped the gunman. The weapon used appeared to be military-grade or automatic, according to Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. The suspect was arrested in the nearby town of Coignieres.

President Emmanuel Macron labeled the incident a racist terror attack. He said the victim was targeted due to skin color or perceived religion. "These people were targeted because of their skin color or perceived religion, and for no other reason," Macron said. He added that the suspect's statements indicated the attack was premeditated.

Trappes Mayor Ali Rabeh said the driver moved through Trappes and La Verriere, aiming to cause a bloodbath. The gunman targeted people at three distinct locations, one of which was a playground. Rabeh noted that a 12-year-old girl was shot eight times. He described her condition as stable. Three other victims are in serious danger of dying. The deceased victim was of African origin, and one critically injured victim is of North African origin.

Prosecutors opened an investigation for murder in connection with a terrorist enterprise. They are examining whether the victims were targeted based on real or supposed race, ethnicity, nationality, or religion. Three people connected to the suspect's family and friend circle were placed in police custody on Friday evening. The suspect has four prior convictions that were legally expunged. He has not been publicly identified.

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu stated that all resources of the security forces and judiciary are fully mobilized. The attack occurred while France faced mass protests over the cost of living and overnight curfews. Demonstrations are scheduled for Saturday. About 70,000 police officers and gendarmes will be deployed, supported by helicopters, armored vehicles, and water cannons. Major Paris museums, including the Louvre, will remain closed. Art Basel Paris canceled its weekend program citing safety concerns.