Grenoble was shaken last night by a grenade attack at a local bar, resulting in twelve people being injured, six of whom are reported to be in critical condition. The incident occurred in the Villeneuve-Olympic Village area of the city. The assailant has yet to be apprehended.
The attack took place shortly after 8 PM local time when an individual reportedly threw a grenade into the bar’s main area while passing by outside. The bar is known as a popular venue for watching football matches, frequented by locals and visitors alike. Chloe Pantel, Deputy Mayor of Grenoble’s Sector 6, emphasized the bar’s role as a key gathering place for the community.
Initial reports suggest that the attacker was also armed with a Kalashnikov, although its use has not been confirmed. Police have recovered the grenade pin from the scene but have ruled out terrorism as a motive. The prosecutor stated that all possible leads must be explored, but any connection to drug trafficking remains speculative at this stage.
Grenoble’s Mayor, Éric Piolle, condemned the attack as a grave crime that left over ten individuals injured. He expressed gratitude to the security forces for their prompt response and the emergency services for their swift action. The city’s main hospital issued an immediate alert, and police have cordoned off the area, leaving residents in a state of fear and anxiety.
A local resident, Leila, described the incident as terrifying, noting that while gunfire is not unheard of, an attack involving a grenade in a crowded room is unprecedented. She expressed hope that no children were harmed in the attack.
The attack took place in a location surrounded by four other bars, typically managed by members of the Turkish and Algerian communities, where patrons often gather for tea and games of dominoes. A few weeks prior, the area was the subject of a police raid concerning cigarette smuggling, though no drugs were involved in that incident.
As investigations continue, the community remains on edge, hoping for swift justice and a return to peace.
