French Suspect Targeted Muslims and Africans in Drive-By Shooting, Prosecutors Say

Investigation Overview

French prosecutors announced on Thursday that a 39-year-old man charged with murder and attempted murder has admitted to targeting individuals based on their perceived Muslim, African, or North African backgrounds. The suspect, identified by authorities as Kevin T., faces formal charges in connection with a terrorist enterprise, according to France’s anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office.

Incident Details

The attack occurred last Friday across the towns of Trappes and La Verriere, located west of Paris. According to official reports, the suspect fired at people from his vehicle while driving through the area.

• One person, identified as 26-year-old French citizen Pengo Bossio Wangi of Congolese heritage, was killed.
• Seven other individuals were injured, including a child.
• Most of the victims reportedly had foreign heritage.

The suspect was arrested later that same day. Prosecutor Olivier Christen stated that Kevin initially disputed the racist nature of the attack before changing his position on Thursday.

Suspect Statements and Evidence

According to prosecutor Christen, the suspect stated he felt "no regret" regarding the attacks and claimed he chose the location because it was a "hotbed for Islamists." Regarding the child victim, the suspect reportedly stated he did not intend to harm children, though prosecutors noted he stated he "might have been mistaken due to their size."

During a subsequent search of the suspect's home, law enforcement authorities recovered several items, including:

• Weapons and weapon components, such as a magazine and a steel bayonet
• Two pairs of brass knuckles and a silencer
• A copy of Adolf Hitler’s *Mein Kampf*
• A Quran, a Bible, and stickers celebrating the far-right National Rally party led by Marine Le Pen

Preparation and Findings

Prosecutor Christen stated that the suspect demonstrated a "very high level of preparation" ahead of the incident. Investigators reportedly found that in September, the suspect acquired components to enhance the tactical effectiveness of a Sten submachine gun, along with a police armband and handcuffs. Despite the recovery of political stickers, Christen added that the suspect claimed he was neither a member of nor a sympathiser with any political party.

Verification and Safety

Independent verification of ongoing judicial investigations can be tracked through official statements released by France’s anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office and verified reports from major international news organizations. The public is advised to rely on official judicial updates rather than unverified social media claims.