On October 23, Kévin T. drove his vehicle through Trappes and La Verrière in the Yvelines region, killing a 26-year-old French man of African origin and injuring seven others. Among the wounded were four people suffering serious injuries, with the majority of victims being of African or Maghrebi descent. The National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor's Office (Pnat) also identified 22 additional individuals who were not physically hit but whose vehicles were struck by bullets or who were targeted without injury, causing psychological distress.
Speaking on RTL, anti-terrorist prosecutor Olivier Christen confirmed that the attacker did not legally possess a firearm and had purchased the weapon clandestinely. The investigation must now determine how T. acquired this Category A weapon, which includes automatic firearms capable of firing in bursts, as well as components designed to increase their effectiveness. Although Mediapart revealed that T. had practiced shooting with a shotgun on vacant land in Saint-Cyr-l'École since at least the summer of 2015, Christen stated there is no evidence suggesting authorities missed warning signs. He emphasized that mere participation in sports clubs or trap shooting activities does not inherently identify a potential target, as many engage in these pursuits peacefully.
Regarding broader security trends, Christen highlighted that since its establishment in July 2019, the Pnat has opened 23 procedures concerning violent radical right-wing extremism, a figure he described as growing. While there were typically one or two such cases annually, six were recorded in 2025 and another six so far in 2026. In contrast, only four procedures have been opened over seven years regarding violent radical left-wing extremism, compared to 480 cases related to jihadism, which Christen reiterated remains the primary threat.
Addressing potential risks linked to the upcoming presidential election, the prosecutor noted that no specific targeting of elections has been detected. He described terrorists across all ideological segments as opportunists who act when circumstances allow, necessitating constant vigilance during gatherings, particularly sporting events. Christen observed that the current climate of discussion creates tension that may lead some individuals to believe it is the right moment to act. Consequently, the number of terrorist procedures opened this year is expected to be among the highest in the past five to six years, reflecting a threat that is very present, diversifying, and perhaps more segmented than before.
Sources: Le Figaro.