France/Germany: Manhunt continues for Strasbourg shooter December 12 /update 4

Event

French and German security forces continue to search for the suspected Strasbourg gunman as of the evening (local time) of Wednesday, December 12. Over 700 French security personnel have been deployed to Strasbourg to find the shooter. German border security has also been increased around Strasbourg after French officials said the suspect may have crossed the border. Long traffic lines were reported at border crossing points in the area throughout Wednesday, and long wait times are expected to continue until the end of the operation.

Earlier on Wednesday, French Interior Minister Christophe Castaner announced the government has raised the country’s security threat level to its highest grade and security measures will be strengthened at Christmas markets nationwide. French authorities are also increasing security at all entry points, including airports. Another 1300 security personnel are reportedly expected to be deployed in the coming days.

Context

A gunman opened fire on crowds near a Christmas market located on the Grand Île of Strasbourg at approximately 20:00 on December 11, killing at least two people and wounding 13 others. Interior Ministry officials confirmed military troops had deployed to secure the market and exchanged fire with the gunmen, wounding him, before he reportedly fled. Authorities cordoned off the area surrounding the Neudorf area shortly after the incident. The suspect had previously been flagged for radicalization by French intelligence services and antiterrorism police units have taken over the investigation.

Advice

Individuals in Strasbourg specifically, and France and Germany more generally, are advised to remain vigilant, report all suspicious objects and behavior to the police, anticipate localized transportation disruptions, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.