The death of a 17-year-old motorist in Nanterre has caused shock and outrage in the community. Police initially said the car collided with officers, but a video posted on social media debunked that theory. It showed a police officer shooting at a driver during a traffic stop.
Dramatic details of police encounter with car driver
According to the official police version, the car committed a number of offenses, and the officers tried to stop it. The driver refused to comply and attempted to run away, resulting in his vehicle being blocked by police in traffic. A police officer leaned on the windshield and shot the driver as he started the car again.
Public protests in Nanterre
The events caused discontent and protests from the public. Residents of Nanterre gathered at the site of the tragedy to express their grief and discontent. Victim support organizations have been mobilized to assist relatives of the deceased.
Official investigation and examination
Authorities conducted two investigations. One of them relates to the attempted murder of a person holding public authority and is assigned to the Nanterre police station and the territorial security of Hauts-de-Seine. The second investigation is being carried out by the General Inspectorate of the National Police and is aimed at a 38-year-old policeman suspected of premeditated murder.
Examinations and analyzes are also carried out, including toxicological studies. Important evidence includes video footage from the scene, city cameras, and other sources.
One of the police officers involved in the incident was detained and is in custody. Test results showed negative results for alcohol and drugs. The passenger of the car, also a minor, was questioned.
Riots and calls for justice and retribution
On Thursday 29 June, the mother of Naël, a 17-year-old motorist who died, called for a white march and an "uprising" in Nanterre. Her call caused divisions in society. Some people support her and express their dissatisfaction with the police, demanding a fair investigation and punishment for those responsible. Others believe that calls for violence and unrest will not solve the problem and may only make the situation worse.
Union reaction
Police unions have expressed anger and confusion over statements by President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Elisabeth Bourne that they say are biased and judgmental of police ahead of an investigation. They noted the importance of the presumption of innocence and the independence of justice.
As protests and tensions continue in Nanterre, authorities have deployed two mobile force units to maintain order and prevent further violence. The officers responsible for the incident are under investigation and investigations are ongoing, including video footage and forensic analysis.
Statements by politicians
President Macron addressed the nation, emphasizing the need for a calm and objective investigation, and also expressed his support for the police in the overall defense of the state. However, he called for respect for the victim and called for peaceful and respectful behavior.
My comments to RBC TV channel
The situation in Nanterre remains tense, and everyone is waiting for the results of the investigation to find out the full truth about what happened inside the car. At the same time, it is necessary to find a balance between the need for fairness and respect for the rights of all parties.
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