A deadly knife attack at a high school in Nantes, western France, has left one student dead and three others injured.
The incident unfolded at the private Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides school in the Doulon area on Thursday afternoon. The suspect, a 15-year-old student, was detained after being restrained by teachers inside the school.
The violence broke out during school hours when the teenager reportedly entered two classrooms before stabbing multiple people. The school was quickly placed under lockdown, and all students and staff were evacuated while emergency services rushed to the site. Police and medical teams arrived shortly after, securing the area and providing care for the injured.
The motive behind the attack is still unclear. Early findings from investigators suggest there is no known link to terrorism. Authorities believe the attacker acted alone and are currently examining his background and mental health. No previous warning signs or threats had been reported by the school.
The attack left students and staff in shock. Many witnessed the aftermath as they were leaving classrooms or heard screams from nearby rooms. Several students described confusion and fear as they tried to understand what was happening. Parents were later called to pick up their children, and many gathered outside the school visibly distressed.
French government officials responded swiftly. The education and interior ministers traveled to Nantes to meet with school officials and offer support to those affected. The government has promised a full investigation and will work closely with local authorities to ensure safety measures are reviewed.
The Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides school, known for its calm environment, is now at the center of a tragedy that has rattled the community. Grief counselors have been made available to students, teachers, and families, while the investigation continues to determine how and why the attack happened.