The Knife Attack at Gambetta High School in Arras, France

The Knife Attack at Gambetta High School in Arras, France

The attack happened in broad daylight, around 11 a.m., inside a school roughly two hours north of Paris. Within a short time, police had a suspect in custody.

The Attack

A stabbing occurred around 11 a.m. at Gambetta High School in Arras, a city in northern France roughly 115 miles from Paris. Police confirmed the person killed was a French language teacher. A second teacher and a security guard were also wounded in the attack; their identities were not released by police.

The Arrest

French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin confirmed on social media that police had arrested a suspect. According to reports citing police, the suspect was described as a man in his 20s of Chechen origin who shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the attack. His brother was also reportedly taken into police custody.

The Response

Police said the situation was brought under control following the arrest. French President Emmanuel Macron was expected to visit the school afterward.

FAQ

Who was killed in the attack?
A French language teacher at Gambetta High School.

Was the attacker apprehended?
Yes. Police arrested a suspect described as a man in his 20s shortly after the attack.

Were there other injuries?
Yes. A second teacher and a security guard were wounded.

Sources