A tragic knife attack in the eastern French city of Mulhouse has resulted in one death and left at least two police officers in serious condition. Authorities have detained a 37-year-old man of Algerian descent at the location of the incident. Following reports that the suspect shouted "Allahu Akbar" (meaning "God is great"), the local prosecutor has initiated a terrorist investigation.

During the attack, two police officers sustained severe injuries—one was stabbed in the neck, and the other in the chest—while a bystander who attempted to intervene was fatally wounded. Reports indicate that the assailant was already under a deportation order and listed on a terrorism watch list, according to statements made by local authorities. French President Emmanuel Macron has characterized the assault as an "Islamist terrorist attack."

Expressing his sympathies to the victim’s family, Macron emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to combatting terrorism within France. He remarked, "I want to reiterate the determination of the government, and mine, to continue the work to eradicate terrorism on our soil."

The violent altercation unfolded during a demonstration supporting the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the police officers were present to maintain security. Mulhouse’s mayor, Michele Lutz, conveyed her sorrow on Facebook, stating, "Horror has seized our city."

French Prime Minister François Bayrou also took to X, expressing his condolences and stating, "fanaticism has struck again, and we are in mourning." He added, "My thoughts naturally go to the victims and their families, with the firm hope that the injured will recover."

Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau is anticipated to visit the site of the attack on Saturday evening.

Additional reporting by Tom Bennett and Rorey Bosotti.

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