Teenage Student Arrested After Deadly Knife Attack at French High School

A 15-year-old student stabbed multiple classmates at a private high school in Nantes, France, on Thursday afternoon, leaving one child dead and several others seriously injured.

The attack occurred at Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides high school in the Doulon area, sending shockwaves through the community.

Around midday, the teenage attacker entered two classrooms armed with a knife. He stabbed at least four students before teachers intervened and restrained him. Police arrived shortly after and arrested the boy. One victim later died from their injuries, while others remain hospitalized in serious condition.

Authorities confirmed the suspect is a student at the school and had no prior criminal record. The motive is under investigation, but local media outlet RTL reported the attack may have stemmed from a dispute between students.

Worried parents rushed to the school as police cordoned off the area. Students were evacuated to the school’s multipurpose room, where many were seen crying and hugging each other. A local journalist described the scene as “tense and emotional,” with families anxiously waiting for updates.

Officers sealed the area for hours, interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence. The attacker’s home was also searched, though no further details were released. French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin praised the teachers’ bravery, stating their quick action “prevented further tragedy.”

The incident has reignited debates about school safety in France. Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides, a Catholic private school with around 1,000 students, had no reported history of violence. Parents and officials are now calling for stricter security measures, including bag checks and increased staff training.