On Friday, a man wielding a knife attempted to stab a police officer during a memorial ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The incident occurred as officers were present for the re-lighting ceremony of the eternal flame in honor of unknown soldiers from the Napoleonic era. According to police officials, as the assailant lunged at one officer, another officer intervened and shot the attacker to prevent any further violence.

Following the shooting, the assailant was injured in the leg and was rushed to a hospital for treatment. Fortunately, no other individuals were harmed during the incident. The actions of the police were aimed at safeguarding the ceremony and the public, demonstrating the need for vigilance in high-profile locations, especially during significant national events.

In the aftermath, the French anti-terrorist prosecutor's office announced that they are investigating the event, emphasizing the alarming nature of the attempt on an officer’s life in a highly visited area like the Arc de Triomphe. This incident raises concerns not only about public safety but also about potential rising threats to authorities during ceremonial events, highlighting a delicate balance between security and public access to national monuments.