France: Authorities responding to shootings in Villerupt, Meurthe-et-Moselle Department, and Audun-le-Tiche, Moselle Department, as of late May 13

Event

Authorities are responding to connected shooting incidents in Villerupt, Meurthe-et-Moselle Department, and Audun-le-Tiche, Moselle Department, near the France-Luxembourg border as of late May 13. The assailant, who remained at large as of late May 13, reportedly wounded four people in the vicinity of Place Jeanne d'Arc in Villerupt while shooting from a car. Subsequently, the suspect fled the scene of the Villerupt shooting and wounded one other person on Rue de Luxembourg in neighboring Audun-le-Tiche. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the shootings could be related to drug trafficking.

Authorities have deployed a heightened security presence to the affected premises and will almost certainly maintain increased security measures in the Villerupt and Audun-le-Tiche areas until police find and detain the suspect. Residual increased security measures are possible even after police apprehend the assailant. Lingering transport and business disruptions are likely in areas subject to heightened security.

Advice

Avoid the incident sites until authorities give the all-clear. Exercise increased vigilance if operating in Villerupt or Audun-le-Tiche May 13-14. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the affected areas and any related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.