According to AFP, three women were injured in a knife attack in northern Paris on July 28, 2026, when an unidentified suspect approached them with two kitchen knives in the Porte de Clichy district. An off-duty French police officer subsequently detained the assailant at the scene, as confirmed by interior ministry officials.
Porte de Clichy Knife Attack Details
Emergency responders transported the victims—aged 19, 24, and 36—to a nearby hospital following the incident, which occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m. local time. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez and Paris police reported that two of the victims sustained critical injuries, with one stabbed in the lower back and another in the abdomen. Geoffroy Boulard, the mayor of the 17th arrondissement where the stabbing took place, stated on X that one of the injured women is pregnant.
Bystander Intervention and Arrest
An off-duty police officer apprehended the suspect shortly after the assault began, according to Minister Laurent Nunez. Kheira Dellabed, a 54-year-old server working nearby, witnessed the attack while washing dishes. “We saw a man walking past with two knives and stabbing three people,” Dellabed said, adding that a young man carrying a small suitcase struck the assailant with his bag to knock him to the ground. Another restaurant worker then placed a chair on top of the suspect to keep him restrained.
Suspect’s Condition and Investigation
Authorities have not yet established the suspect’s identity or motive. Minister Nunez noted that the detained individual made incoherent statements following the arrest but urged the public and media to avoid rushing to conclusions regarding the underlying cause of the attack.
Did you know?
In this case, local restaurant staff and a young man with a suitcase physically restrained the armed suspect before the off-duty police officer completed the arrest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the Paris knife attack take place?
The attack occurred in the Porte de Clichy area located within the 17th arrondissement of northern Paris.
What is the condition of the victims?
Three women aged 19, 24, and 36 were hospitalized. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez and Paris police confirmed that two of the victims are in critical condition.
Who detained the suspect?
An off-duty French police officer detained the suspect after bystanders, including a local restaurant worker and a young man with a suitcase, intervened and knocked the assailant to the ground.
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