The Radical Reading Room

A man suspected of a shooting in the Paris suburbs on 23 October has admitted targeting individuals he perceived to be Muslim or of African or North African origin, prosecutors say. The attack, which killed 26-year-old Pengo Bossio Wangi and injured seven others including a child, occurred as the suspect drove through Trappes and La Verrières. National anti-terrorism prosecutor Olivier Christen confirmed the suspect, identified as 39-year-old Kévin T., acknowledged premeditation and described the attack as being carried out in bursts.

Investigators found that T had purchased a Sten-type submachine gun and other items, including a police armband and handcuffs, between September and the attack date. The suspect claimed he chose the area because it was a 'hotbed for Islamists,' though he denied any terrorist intent or political affiliation.

Police also discovered weapons components and materials in his home, including a Quran, a Bible, and Adolf Hitler’s Mein Kampf, along with stickers promoting the far-right National Rally party. T stated he designed the stickers himself and printed them over a year ago.

France’s president, Emmanuel Macron, labeled the incident a 'racist terrorist attack,' prompting anti-racism demonstrations. The suspect remains in custody and is set to appear before a judge. The number of injured has been updated from five to seven, with three still hospitalized, one in critical condition.