Knife Attack in Nantes: One Teenage Girl Killed, Motive Still Unclear

Following the tragic events at the private school Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides in Nantes, the public prosecutor Antoine Leroy shared the first findings of the investigation during a press conference. On Thursday, April 24, a 16-year-old student fatally stabbed a classmate and injured three others. For now, the authorities have not been able to determine a clear motive.

A Brutal and Premeditated Attack

The assault occurred in the middle of the school day, with no prior warning. According to the prosecutor’s account, the suspect, Justin P., isolated himself in a bathroom for several minutes before sending a 13-page manifesto to all students. He had reportedly inflicted cuts on his own forehead and written disturbing messages on the walls, suggesting deep psychological distress.

He then entered a classroom where he stabbed a 15-year-old girl 57 times, mainly in the head, neck, and torso. The fatal wounds struck both the jugular and carotid arteries. Despite efforts from a teacher and students to intervene, the attacker moved to another classroom, randomly targeting three more students. One victim, initially in critical condition, is now out of danger.

A Quick Intervention and a Controlled Arrest

A school IT technician acted swiftly, striking the assailant with a chair and temporarily halting the attack. After a brief exchange, the teenager agreed to drop the hunting knife and a pocketknife he was carrying. Police arrived shortly afterward and apprehended him without resistance.

A Troubled Profile With No Criminal History

The 16-year-old suspect, who had been enrolled at the school since 2021, was described as extremely isolated. His mother, concerned about his mental health, had arranged for him to meet with adolescent mental health professionals. Teachers had also reported a concerning fascination with Adolf Hitler, based on his drawings and behavior. The prosecutor ruled out a romantic motive, clarifying that the victim was the only student the suspect spoke to with any depth.

There is currently no indication of bullying or any accomplice. However, several aspects point toward premeditation, including the recent online purchase of the hunting knife used in the attack.

Ongoing Investigation

Initially opened as a case of “murder,” the investigation may be reclassified as “premeditated murder” (assassination) if further evidence supports that conclusion. The suspect’s custody was suspended due to his mental state, and he has since been hospitalized. He is expected to be transferred to a psychiatric unit. Authorities have conducted around 70 interviews with witnesses so far.

A private memorial was held on Friday afternoon within the school. At the family’s request, the victim’s name and photos remain undisclosed.