Paris Suburb Shooter Faces Terror Indictment

A 15-minute drive-by shooting in the Paris suburbs has been formally classified as a terrorist enterprise. The National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor's Office indicted a 39-year-old suspect identified as Kevin T for murder in connection with this classification. The attack resulted in one death and five injuries. Prosecutors also charged him with possession of a Category A weapon and conspiracy to prepare crimes against persons.

The violence occurred in Trappes, southwest of Paris, and the neighboring town of La Verrière. The attacker drove a grey Renault Clio through several neighborhoods. Witnesses reported he fired at a petrol station, a medical center, and a playground. He then moved to La Verrière, where police detained him on the main road. Three of the wounded are in serious condition. This group includes a 12-year-old girl who sustained eight gunshot wounds and required surgery.

President Emmanuel Macron visited the scene and labeled the incident a racist terrorist attack. He stated that victims were targeted due to their skin color or religion. Macron described the event as a turning point for the Republic. He called it the first random racial killing of this kind in France. The President urged the public not to give an inch against ideologies taking root.

The suspect had four previous convictions that were automatically expunged. Local media noted he was known to police but not to intelligence services. The prosecutor's office confirmed he was not on a list of serious security threats. A member of his immediate family was also taken into custody on Friday. The precise motive remains under investigation, though officials believe he aimed at people of migrant origin.

Trappes mayor Ali Rabeh said the gunman fired randomly. Rabeh stated the attacker hoped to cause as many casualties as possible. The mayor described the intent as a desire to cause carnage. A local police chief told BFMTV that the suspect used an older-style semi-automatic weapon. Le Parisien reported the firearm dated back to World War II.

The mother of the injured 12-year-old spoke with broadcaster RTL. She asked how anyone could do this to a child. Her daughter had been wearing a headscarf. The mother wondered if that was the reason for the attack. She noted her daughter was born in Trappes and has the right to live in France.

The investigation continues as prosecutors gather evidence. The suspect remains in custody. The injured victims are receiving medical care. The case has been handed to the National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor's Office.