France Opens Attempted-Murder Probe After Paris Petrol-Bomb Attack

Paris prosecutors opened an investigation Sunday for attempted murder of persons vested with public authority after a Molotov cocktail exploded at a gendarme's feet at Porte de Charenton, engulfing his lower body in flames captured by AFP. The prosecutor's office said explosive devices were thrown at around 15 gendarmes as well as police officers. The injured gendarme described skin that stings and a rain of projectiles to French television. No suspects had been arrested for the attack. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez called the violence extraordinary. The Paris Police Prefecture said several hundred rioters attacked forces with projectiles including a Molotov cocktail. The attack came during a third weekend of protests over living costs and education. About 70,000 police and gendarmes were deployed. Turnout was estimated at 320,000 by the interior ministry and nearly 500,000 by unions. The ministry reported 779 nationwide arrests including Halloween night, updating a provisional 565; other outlets reported more than 770 or over 560. Paris recorded 105 arrests, with 89 in custody including at least 22 minors. About 20 businesses were damaged. Marine Le Pen said on X perpetrators must be punished with the utmost severity and called images unbearable. Bruno Retailleau called it unbearable and an attempted murder. Pierre Sourzat said some school blockades would begin Monday. Investigators continued seeking those responsible.