France’s national counterterrorism prosecutor requested Thursday that a 39-year-old suspect be held in pretrial detention following a shooting in the Paris suburbs that killed one person and injured seven others. Authorities stated the suspect targeted individuals he believed were Muslim or from Africa.
The suspect, identified as Kevin T., a 39-year-old French national, was arrested approximately 20 minutes after the shooting began Friday in Trappes and the neighboring town of La Verrière, west of Paris. An 11-year-old girl was among those injured when the gunman fired from his vehicle along a route spanning 12 kilometers (7.5 miles).
According to national counterterrorism prosecutor Olivier Christen, the suspect has acknowledged that the acts were premeditated and admitted to specifically targeting individuals based on their appearance, whom he believed to be Muslim or from sub-Saharan or North Africa. Christen also noted that the suspect described Trappes as a "haven for Islamists," though he denied any terrorist intent and stated he had no regrets.
A judicial investigation has been initiated into murder and attempted murder in connection with a terrorist enterprise, with the aggravating circumstance of crimes committed due to the victims' actual or perceived race, ethnicity, nationality, or religion.
The deceased has been identified as Pengo Bossio Wangi, a 26-year-old Black French national. Four other individuals sustained serious injuries, with one remaining in life-threatening condition. Three others suffered less severe injuries. Details regarding the identities of the injured have not been released.
Christen indicated that the suspect has a history of psychological and psychiatric issues, as well as drug addiction. Toxicology reports detected cannabis, cocaine, and prescribed medications in his blood.
During a search of the suspect's vehicle, a Sten-type submachine gun was discovered. Investigators also found his apartment had been booby-trapped with three gas cylinders and electrical wires connected to a timer.
Evidence suggests the suspect purchased several firearm components last month. Two days prior to the shooting, he reportedly deleted his social media accounts, sold his laptop, and concealed his phone, which police were able to locate.
Investigators also found a copy of Adolf Hitler's manifesto, "Mein Kampf," along with stickers bearing inscriptions such as "Long live France," "Proud to be French," and "RN," the acronym for the far-right National Rally party. The suspect stated he designed and ordered these stickers himself, but claimed he was neither a member nor a supporter of any political party.