A high school student killed, three others injured in knife attack in Nantes: Suspect arrested

A knife attack on Thursday, April 24, at the private institution Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides in Nantes resulted in one fatality and several injuries. The perpetrator, a 15-year-old high school student, was subdued by the school staff before the police arrived. The police forces are involved in the investigation, according to information gathered by H24 NEWS.

The sequence of events
The incident occurred in the early afternoon when the teenager, enrolled at the school, entered the premises with a knife. According to initial reports, he first attacked a student on the second floor, fatally stabbing her. He then injured three other high school students, one of whom is in critical condition, before being restrained by teachers. The police intervened shortly after noon and arrested the minor.

A disturbing profile and alarming document
The suspect, a minor unknown to law enforcement, appears to have acted after sending a document to his classmates. According to testimonies gathered on site, an email was distributed to all students just minutes before the attack, containing dark reflections on society. This document, written by the suspect, discusses themes such as “global ecocide” and harshly criticizes globalization.

Reactions and security measures
A significant security operation was deployed around the school, including the confinement of students and the presence of numerous police officers and military personnel. The public prosecutor announced that a press conference would be held later in the afternoon to provide further details on the investigation. Additionally, Minister of the Interior Bruno Retailleau and Minister of Education Elisabeth Borne visited the site to express their solidarity with the victims and support the educational community.

Ongoing investigation
While the exact motives behind this act of violence remain unclear, an investigation has been launched. The deceased victim is a high school student, while the three others injured are being treated by emergency services. The Ministry of Education has stated that psychological support measures will be provided for both students and staff.