French suspect admits targeting Muslims and Africans in shooting spree

French anti-terrorism authorities revealed on Thursday that a 39-year-old man formally charged with murder and attempted murder has confessed to targeting individuals who appeared to be Muslim, African, or North African. The suspect, identified as Kevin T., carried out a shooting last Friday while driving through the western Paris suburbs of Trappes and La Verriere. The violent rampage resulted in one fatality and left seven others injured, including a child. Most of the victims possessed foreign heritage. Prosecutor Olivier Christen stated during a press briefing that the accused admitted to selecting the specific area because he viewed it as a hotbed for Islamists. Pengo Bossio Wangi, a 26-year-old French citizen of Congolese descent, lost his life in the attack.

Investigation findings and weapons recovered

Investigators noted that the suspect demonstrated a remarkably high level of preparation prior to the incident. Authorities executing a search at Kevin's residence discovered various weapon components, a magazine, brass knuckles, a steel bayonet, and a silencer. Furthermore, police recovered a copy of Adolf Hitler's book Mein Kampf, a Quran, a Bible, and stickers supporting the far-right National Rally party led by Marine Le Pen. Prosecutor Christen explained that back in September, the suspect acquired tactical components designed to improve a Sten submachine gun, along with a police armband and handcuffs. Despite possessing far-right memorabilia, the suspect reportedly claimed he had no formal affiliation with or sympathy for any specific political party.

Suspect confessed to targeting people based on their perceived background during a deadly shooting near Paris.

Suspect statements and legal proceedings

Initially contesting the racially motivated nature of the offences, the suspect altered his position and made full admissions to prosecutors on Thursday. According to the lead prosecutor, the accused expressed no regret for his actions. Regarding the injuries sustained by a child during the shooting, the suspect maintained that he had no intention of harming minors, suggesting he may have misjudged targets due to their size. Following his arrest on the day of the shooting, the individual now faces severe charges connected to a terrorist enterprise, with judicial authorities continuing their thorough examination of the case and the extensive evidence recovered from his property.