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A horrific stabbing attack at a private school in western France has left one student dead and at least three others injured, according to multiple French media outlets.
The violent incident occurred on Thursday afternoon at Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides, a private Catholic school located in Nantes, a city in the Loire-Atlantique department of western France.
The Attack and Immediate Response
According to eyewitness reports and local media, the assailant—believed to be a student—launched a sudden and violent attack on campus. Fortunately, a quick-thinking teacher managed to restrain the attacker, preventing further casualties until police arrived on the scene.
The suspect was arrested on site, and authorities quickly locked down the school. Emergency responders and heavily armed police officers flooded the area, which was immediately cordoned off. The school building was evacuated in phases, with police and emergency personnel ensuring the safety of students and staff.
Chaos and Panic as Alarm Sounded
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as alarms rang out across the school, prompting students to flee or barricade themselves inside classrooms. Reports indicate that some pupils ran through the premises in fear, while others were locked inside rooms as part of emergency containment procedures.
Local newspaper Ouest-France reported that parents were quickly alerted and were guided by school officials and emergency responders to safely collect their children. The street where the school is located, Rue des Épinettes, has been closed off entirely to traffic and the public.
National Leaders React
The gravity of the incident has prompted immediate attention from top government officials. France’s Education Minister and Interior Minister are expected to arrive at the school Thursday afternoon to assess the situation and offer support to the victims and community.
Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne took to social media to express her sorrow and solidarity with those affected.
“I want to express my deep solidarity with the victims, their families, and the entire school community. The entire nation stands with you during this tragic moment,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Ongoing Investigation and Press Conference
Antoine Leroy, the Nantes public prosecutor, has already visited the crime scene and is expected to provide more details during a press conference scheduled for 19:00 local time.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the motive behind the attack, and the identity of the attacker has not been publicly released. Investigators are now working to piece together the events leading up to the stabbing and determine whether any prior warnings or signs were missed.
A Nation in Mourning
This tragic incident has once again shaken France, where schools are often regarded as sanctuaries of safety and learning. The attack in Nantes comes amid heightened concerns about youth violence and mental health issues across the country.
Counselors and support teams are being dispatched to assist students, teachers, and families coping with the emotional aftermath of the tragedy. The school will remain closed until further notice.
As the investigation unfolds, the people of Nantes—and indeed all of France—are left mourning the loss of a young life taken far too soon.
