France: Man attacks two women in Chalon-sur-Saône Sep. 15

Event

A hammer-wielding man attacked two women in a public park in Chalon-sur-Saône (Burgundy) on Friday, September 15. According to media reports, the incident occurred near Place de Beaune. Both victims suffered non-life threatening wounds and are currently being treated at the local hospital. Police are still searching for the suspected attacker as of Friday afternoon (local time). Expect an increased security presence in the area.

Authorities said that they are treating the incident as a possible terrorist attack, but have stated that they believe the perpetrator may be suffering a mental disturbance. Witnesses claim that the man shouted “Allahu Akbar” during the attack.

Context

France has been under a state of emergency since the November 13, 2015, terrorist attacks in the Paris region that killed 130 people. On June 6, a man armed with a hammer attacked a police officer in front of Notre Dame Cathedral; the officer was lightly wounded and the assailant was shot and killed. On April 20, a shooting targeting French police on the Avenue des Champs Elysées left one officer dead; the assailant was killed. In March, an armed man briefly took a French soldier hostage at Orly Airport before being shot dead.

Advice

Individuals in Chalon-sur-Saône are advised to monitor the situation, to anticipate ongoing police operations, and to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Report any suspicious objects or behavior.