Grenoble’s mayor, Éric Piolle, condemned a violent grenade attack in a local bar that injured 15 people, two critically. The Health Minister described it as an act of extreme violence, while authorities confirmed the assailant is still at large. The investigation, led by DCOS police, may explore links to drug trafficking. Local officials expressed shock over the incident, which has raised concerns about rising violence in the community. Security measures are being reinforced as the search for the suspect continues.
Grenoble Mayor Condemns Violent Grenade Attack
Éric Piolle, the mayor of Grenoble, referred to the recent grenade attack in a vulnerable neighborhood as “a criminal act of unprecedented violence.” The incident, which took place on February 12, involved a grenade being thrown into a community bar located in the Olympic Village. This shocking event resulted in 15 individuals being injured, with two of them in critical condition, as reported by the Isère prefecture.
Investigation Underway as Community Rallies
During a visit to the CHU of Grenoble, Health Minister Yannick Neuder confirmed the injuries sustained from what he described as “an extremely violent grenade, resembling war tactics.” Many patrons were enjoying their time at the bar when the explosion occurred, leading to a rapid response from 80 firefighters on the scene.
The assailant is currently at large. A magistrate recounted the events, stating, “A person entered, threw a grenade, did not say a word, and then fled.” There is speculation that the suspect may have been armed with a Kalashnikov, but it remains unclear if that weapon was used during the incident. The focus of the investigation is on the grenade explosion, which caused the majority of the injuries.
Catherine Séguin, the prefect of Isère, condemned the attack as an “act of unprecedented cowardice” that has no place in society. She assured that the State would not tolerate such acts and emphasized the ongoing efforts to locate the suspect while reinforcing security in the area. The deputy prosecutor, François Touret de Coucy, indicated that the investigation is being led by the DCOS police, and they are exploring potential links to drug trafficking as one of the motives behind this violent act.
The bar, known as Aksehir, serves as a popular meeting point for locals and football fans alike. Despite its welcoming atmosphere, the incident has raised concerns about escalating violence in the city. Officials, including deputy mayor Chloé Pantel, expressed their shock and offered condolences to the victims and their families. As the investigation continues, the community remains vigilant and united in the face of this tragedy.