A fatal stabbing at Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides High School in Nantes, France, resulted in the arrest of a 15-year-old student on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The attack, which occurred during lunch break, led to the death of one student and injuries to three others.
According to law enforcement, the perpetrator was restrained by school staff until police arrived, preventing further harm.
Following the incident, Education Minister Elisabeth Borne and Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau visited the school to show their support for the victims and the educational community. The deceased student was a 15-year-old girl, and one of the injured students remained in a critical state.
Students reported receiving an email from the alleged attacker earlier that day. The lengthy message criticized globalization and advocated for a “biological revolt” to restore the “natural order of things,” according to eyewitness accounts.
The accused, described as “extremely solitary” by prosecutors, was dressed in black and wore a helmet and balaclava during the attack. He reportedly entered two classrooms and initiated the attacks before being subdued by teachers.
The attacker had reportedly expressed admiration for Adolf Hitler, though prosecutors have not yet determined a clear motive for the violence. The suspect is currently under arrest and undergoing a psychiatric evaluation.
Prime Minister François Bayrou, responding to the incident, stated, “This tragedy shows once again the endemic violence that exists in a part of our youth.” He ordered immediate security checks in and around schools nationwide.
Bayrou also announced the establishment of a commission to investigate how to tackle teenage knife crime, including potential regulations on the sale and possession of knives. Some officials are considering the installation of metal detectors in schools as a security measure.
Following the incident, the school was evacuated, and a significant police presence was dispatched to the scene. Students were kept in confinement for about 20 minutes before being gradually released. Psychological support services have been provided for students and staff affected by the attack.
French President Emmanuel Macron commended the teachers for their intervention, stating that their bravery likely prevented a larger tragedy from occurring.
The attack has ignited a debate among French politicians regarding the best way to tackle violence in schools. Right-leaning parties are advocating for stricter security measures, while left-leaning parties emphasize the need for increased mental health resources and addressing the root causes of youth violence.
This incident marks the latest in a series of knife attacks in French schools, raising concerns about teenage violence. The prosecutor’s office is investigating the case, with a press conference expected in the coming days to provide more information about the suspect’s psychological profile and the incident.
The counterterrorism prosecutor’s office is reviewing the incident, but authorities have stated there is no indication of a terrorist motive. “The psychological profile of the suspect was not known,” Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said following his visit to the school.
The school was cordoned off for several hours while investigators collected evidence. Parents anxiously awaited information about their children outside the security perimeter. School officials collaborated with law enforcement to ensure all students were safe and reunited with their families.
In response to the attack, the government has ordered increased security at education facilities throughout France. The Education Ministry announced that additional resources will be allocated to schools to address security concerns.
Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides High School will remain closed for several days while the community deals with the aftermath of the incident. Counseling services have been arranged for students, staff, and families affected by the attack.
