A knife attack during a market event in eastern France has resulted in one death and multiple injuries, with officials labelling the incident a terror act. The assailant, who targeted bystanders and municipal police shouting “Allahu Akbar”, was subdued by law enforcement and is now in custody. The attack occurred at the covered canal market in Mulhouse, as described by the city’s mayor, Michèle Lutz.
The attacker, a 37-year-old Algerian national, has been previously convicted of expressing support for terrorism. French President Emmanuel Macron offered condolences to the victim’s family and affirmed that the investigation is led by the national anti-terror prosecutor. Macron characterised the attack as a likely Islamic terrorism act, in light of the suspect’s statements during the assault.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau highlighted the suspect’s problematic migration history, noting that efforts to deport him to Algeria were unsuccessful due to the country’s refusal to accept him. Retailleau attributed the attack to ongoing issues related to migration and reiterated concerns regarding Islamist terrorism. As details continue to unfold, authorities are maintaining a vigilant approach to similar threats.