Tragedy struck Paris again with three dead and three others injured following a shooting.
Here’s what we know so far the incident in the French capital.
Who is the suspect?
A 69-year-old suspect, who was also injured, was arrested after the incident and the Paris prosecutor’s office opened an investigation.
He said the suspect had a previous criminal record, including an arrest for attacking migrants living in tents, and that investigators were considering a possible racial motive for the shooting.
French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin said the suspect was a French national and known to authorities, but not in a context of political extremism, and was not known to the secret services.
He added that the attacker’s “exact motives” are so far unknown and that “as things stand” he acted alone.
The suspect’s father told AFP: “He was a quiet man, as they say. He was really withdrawn. He didn’t live like everyone else. This morning he didn’t say anything when he left. .”
Where was the shooting?
The shooting occurred at noon at a Kurdish cultural center and a nearby restaurant and hairdresser, according to the mayor of the 10th arrondissement, Alexandra Cordebard.
Speaking to reporters at the scene, she said the “true motivation” for the shooting remains unclear.
Police cordoned off the area on a busy street with shops and restaurants near Gare de l’Est.
Three people affected by the shooting have died, one is in critical condition and two others are hospitalized with less serious injuries.
Violent protests have since erupted in nearby streets, with riot police firing tear gas in an attempt to disperse an angry crowd who were hurling projectiles at officers.
What did Emmanuel Macron say?
President Emmanuel Macron tweeted: “The Kurds of France have been the target of a heinous attack in the heart of Paris.
“Thoughts of the victims, of the people struggling to survive, of their families and loved ones. Recognition of our law enforcement for their courage and composure.”
UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly tweeted about the “tragic news” in Paris, and said the UK “stands ready to support in any way possible”.
