France: Police neutralize terror suspect December 13 /update 6

Event

Security forces reportedly shot and killed the suspected Strasbourg gunman at approximately 21:15 (local time) on Thursday, December 13, after a 48-hour manhunt. According to local reports, police found the suspect in a warehouse located in the Meineau area and killed him after an exchange of gunfire. A heightened security presence is expected in the area over the coming hours and 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 three people and wounding several others. Interior Ministry officials confirmed military troops were deployed to secure the market and exchanged fire with the gunman, wounding him, before he reportedly fled. The suspect had previously been flagged for radicalization by French intelligence services and antiterrorism police units have taken over the investigation.

Police subsequently elevated the terror threat level, which included increased border controls at border crossings along the Franco-German border. Several large-scale security operations have also taken place throughout Strasbourg during the 48-hour manhunt, particularly in the Neudorf area, where the suspect previously resided.

Advice

Individuals in Strasbourg 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.