Kévin Tessier, 39, was placed in provisional detention Thursday after admitting to targeting victims in Trappes, France, based on their race or ethnicity, according to the national antiterrorism prosecutor. The attack, which occurred on October 23, 2026, left one person dead and seven injured, with one victim’s prognosis still critical. Tessier, who had a prior criminal record and a history of drug use, was charged with assassination and attempted assassination linked to a terrorist enterprise, with the motive explicitly tied to racial or ethnic bias.
Tessier kills one and injures seven in targeted attack
Tessier, an inhabitant of the Yvelines, opened fire on a group of people in Trappes and La Verrière, killing 26-year-old Pengo Bossio Wangi, a French citizen originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and injuring seven others. Prosecutors confirmed he specifically targeted individuals “of Muslim, African, or North African appearance,” citing his own statements. While Tessier acknowledged the act, he denied it was terrorist in nature, calling it “legitimate.” He also claimed he may have mistaken the age of an 11-year-old victim, though he expressed no remorse.
The attack prompted immediate government action, including a national tribute and a ban on a far-right event in Paris. The prefecture of police stated the interdiction was ordered by the interior minister due to public order risks following the attack.
Prosecutors detail preparation and weapons found at residence
Tessier was transferred to the Paris Court of Justice for potential examination by antiterrorism judges. The national antiterrorism prosecutor (Pnat) detailed his “very high preparation” for the attack, including purchasing weapons, a police brassard, and menottes. Authorities also found a charger, two brass knuckles, a bayonet, and a silencer at his residence, alongside books including Mein Kampf and religious texts. His home also contained 227 self-made stickers promoting nationalist slogans, though their authenticity was questioned.
During his 48-hour psychiatric hold, prosecutors noted Tessier had a history of drug use since age 13 and psychological issues. Toxicology reports revealed cannabis, cocaine, and antipsychotic medications in his system. His defense attorneys emphasized the “gravity of the facts” and requested a “serene” legal process, calling for the procedure to be “as smooth as possible.”
Suspect had nationalist stickers at home
Did You Know? The suspect’s residence contained 227 self-made stickers promoting nationalist slogans, including phrases like “Vive la France, RN, Fier d’être français,” though their authenticity was disputed by investigators.
Expert Insight:
Expert Insight: The case highlights racial violence in France, with Tessier’s premeditated actions and ideological materials suggesting a potential ideological motive.
How many people were injured and what charges were filed?
How many people were injured in the attack?
Seven people were injured, including four with severe wounds. One victim’s prognosis remained critical as of October 29, 2026.
What charges has Kévin Tessier faced?
He was charged with assassination and attempted assassination in relation to a terrorist enterprise, with the motive explicitly tied to racial or ethnic bias. Additional charges included illegal weapon possession and association with terrorist groups.
What was found at Tessier’s residence?
Authorities discovered weapons, including a charger, a bayonet, and a silencer, as well as books such as Mein Kampf and religious texts. Over 200 self-made stickers promoting nationalist slogans were also found, though their authenticity was questioned.
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