Police said that eight children and one adult were stabbed during a knife attack on a beauty spot located in southern France, on Thursday.
Police said that the suspect was detained, but it was not clear what his motive was.
The police said that the children had been as young as 3 years old, and three were in serious condition.
In a tweet, President Emmanuel Macron stated that the suspect carried out an “attack of cowardice”, and that those injured were in a “life or death” situation.
The attack occurred at 3:45 a.m. on a group of children who were supervised by their teachers. The French National Police confirmed to NBC News that the attack occurred at 9.45 a.m. local time (3:45 a.m. ET).
The police said that the attack occurred in Le Paquier d’Annecy. This park is located on the north shore of the lake. It has a play area for children and a spectacular view across the lake to the surrounding mountains.
In a tweet, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin stated that the suspect was “arrested thanks to the rapid intervention of police.”
Francois Astorg is the mayor of Annecy. He called the attack “appalling”. A news conference will be held at 12:30 pm on Thursday morning (6.30 am ET). ET).
The French Parliament held a minute of silence after hearing the news.
This story is in progress. Please check back soon for any updates.
Nancy Ing and Patrick Smith both reported from Paris.
