France’s nationwide Fêtes de la Musique celebrations were marred by a wave of violence and syringe attacks that left dozens of people, mostly young women, hospitalized and raised concerns over public safety at mass gatherings.
Authorities in La Rochelle responded to reports of syringe assaults around 9:15 p.m. Saturday in the Rue du Palais area. According to Metz Mayor François Grosdidier, a number of women between the ages of 14 and 20 reported being pricked by needles and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
One male suspect was identified by a victim and later tracked through surveillance footage. He was taken into custody by the National Police and transferred to judicial authorities. It remains unclear whether the man acted alone. Social media posts circulating on Snapchat and other platforms had urged users to “target women” during the festival, particularly in Paris, where authorities said crowds reached record levels.
Similar attacks were also reported in Place de la République and Place Saint-Jacques, adding to a disturbing nationwide pattern. In total, French officials registered approximately 150 reports of syringe assaults across the country during the festivities, including 13 in Paris alone.
Officials have yet to confirm whether any of the syringes were laced with substances such as GHB or Rohypnol. “Some victims reported feeling unwell,” the Interior Ministry said in a statement, noting that toxicology tests were underway for several individuals who were admitted to hospitals.
Beyond the syringe attacks, the Fêtes de la Musique saw widespread unrest. Police reported more than 370 arrests across France for incidents ranging from fistfights to stabbings, further underscoring the chaotic turn the celebrations took this year.
The Interior Ministry has yet to announce any specific security changes, but local officials say further measures will be considered ahead of upcoming summer events.
