Knife Attack in Mulhouse: One Killed and Multiple Injured in Unfolding Terror Incident

Authorities are examining the violent altercation that took place near a bustling market, leading to an increase in security concerns across France.

A stabbing incident in the eastern French city of Mulhouse left one person dead and five police officers injured, prompting a swift terrorist inquiry. The suspect, a 37-year-old Algerian man, allegedly shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the attack. He was arrested at the scene, where he inflicted serious wounds on two officers, impacting one in the neck and another in the chest. Tragically, a 69-year-old Portuguese man, who intervened to assist the officers, succumbed to fatal stab wounds.

Local authorities reported that the suspect was under a deportation order and listed on a terrorism watch list. This has raised alarms for President Emmanuel Macron, who characterized the incident as an Islamist terrorist attack while expressing condolences to the victim's family. Macron reiterated the commitment of the government to combat terrorism on French soil.

The attack unfolded at approximately 4 PM local time on Saturday, near a busy marketplace that attracts many locals and visitors, close to the borders of Germany and Switzerland. Police officers were present for a demonstration advocating for the Democratic Republic of Congo when the violent act transpired.

Cemalettin Canak, a 55-year-old resident, shared his shock with Reuters, stating, "I have lived in France for 41 years and have never experienced something like this," reflecting the heightened fear in the community post-attack. The two seriously injured officers were taken to the hospital—one was later discharged, while three others sustained minor wounds.

Mulhouse's mayor, Michele Lutz, expressed her dismay on social media stating, "Horror has seized our city." French Prime Minister François Bayrou echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the tragedy of fanaticism striking the nation yet again, and sent thoughts and hopes for recovery to the affected families.

Following a visit to the crime scene, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau revealed that the arrested suspect exhibited a "schizophrenic profile". He criticized the failed attempts to deport the individual—ten in total—and called for a re-evaluation of diplomatic relations with Algeria, emphasizing a need for revised regulations on detention facilities. No immediate responses had been issued from the Algerian government concerning the incident.

The community continues to grapple with security and emotional aftermath in light of this unsettling occurrence.