Tragic Stabbing at Nantes School Leaves One Dead, Three Injured

Nantes, France – A 15-year-old student fatally stabbed one classmate and injured three others on Thursday, April 24, during a lunch break at Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides school in Nantes. Authorities reported the incident unfolded around 12:30 p.m., creating panic among students and staff.

Witnesses said the assailant, Justin P., was armed with two knives when he entered multiple classrooms. According to police reports, he had previously sent a disturbing 13-page manifesto titled “L’action immunitaire” to other students, expressing his dark views on society.

Emergency services arrived on the scene shortly after the attack, and Justin was quickly subdued by a teacher. The stab wounds inflicted resulted in one female victim succumbing to her injuries, while another victim was reported in critical condition.

“It’s absolutely shocking. We are in a school that usually feels very safe,” an anonymous student told BFMTV. “Seeing a friend die is terrifying for all of us.” The school’s principal communicated that students were confined for several hours until parents could safely retrieve them.

In the wake of this violence, a psychological support unit will be opened at the school. Classes will resume for younger students, while high school courses will be suspended.

Local official Julien Bainvel characterized it as an “isolated act” while recognizing the challenges in preventing such violence. “Everyone must understand the gravity of this situation and allow justice to do its work,” he stated.

The local education minister, Élisabeth Borne, extended her condolences to the victim’s family, highlighting the need for comprehensive security measures in schools, including possible installations of security gates.

As the investigation continues, Prime Minister François Bayrou labelled the incident a major wake-up call regarding youth violence. “A collective response is needed to address the ongoing violence in our schools,” he stated.

The national prosecutor’s office is reviewing the case to determine if it falls under terror-related activities. A press conference is scheduled for later today to discuss further details.