Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : Fatal Knife Attack in Central Paris Investigated as Possible Terrorist Plot
Late on Saturday night, a man with a history of radical Islamism and mental health issues carried out a deadly knife attack in central Paris, killing one tourist and injuring two others. French authorities have since arrested the attacker, identified as Armand Rajabpour-Miyandoab, a 24-year-old French national of Iranian descent. The incident occurred near the iconic Eiffel Tower around 9:00 pm, during a busy weekend in the city.
Prosecutors specializing in terrorist incidents have opened an investigation into the attacker, suspecting him of murder in relation to the death of a 23-year-old German-Filipino citizen. The wounded victims include a 66-year-old British citizen and a 60-year-old French national, who are both being treated for their injuries. The authorities are considering the attack as a potential terrorist plot.
At the moment of the attack, Rajabpour-Miyandoab shouted “Allahu Akbar,” which means “God is greatest” in Arabic, according to Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin. The suspect, who had a history of mental illness and was known to authorities, expressed his anger over the killing of Muslims in Afghanistan and Palestine. He also accused France of supporting Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip.
The French government responded swiftly to the attack. Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne reassured the public, stating, “We will not give in to terrorism.” President Emmanuel Macron expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased and referred to the incident as a “terrorist attack.” Police and security sources confirmed that the attacker had posted a video claiming responsibility on social media.
Investigators will closely examine the attacker’s medical history, describing him as “very unstable and easily influenced.” There are concerns about whether he received adequate medical supervision, particularly considering his previous four-year prison sentence for planning another attack in Paris.
A taxi driver who witnessed the scene intervened, saving the wife of the slain tourist. The attacker then fled across a nearby bridge, striking others with a hammer. Pursuing police used a taser to subdue the assailant, who was subsequently apprehended.
France has experienced multiple Islamist extremist attacks in recent years, including the notorious November 2015 attacks in Paris, which resulted in the deaths of 130 people. While the country has experienced a relative lull in such incidents, officials have consistently warned about the persisting threat. Tensions have recently escalated due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has affected France’s large Jewish and Muslim populations.
This attack serves as a reminder for heightened security measures in Paris, particularly as the city prepares to host the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. With the investigation ongoing, the French people and authorities are seeking justice for the victims and working towards preventing future acts of terrorism.