Man targeted Muslims, Africans and North Africans, French prosecutors say

A man arrested in connection with a gun attack in Paris suburbs, which left one person dead and seven others injured, has confessed to targeting individuals perceived as Muslim, African, or North African, prosecutors announced on Thursday. The 39-year-old suspect, identified as Kevin T., discharged a submachine gun from a moving vehicle during his drive through Trappes and La Verriere, west of Paris, on Friday.

He was apprehended the same day. Most of the victims were of foreign origin. The attack transpired during a politically charged atmosphere, preceding presidential elections six months away, with far-right candidate Marine Le Pen leading the polls. On Thursday, the suspect was charged with murder and attempted murder, claiming association with a terrorist organization.

His lawyers informed the court that their client had voluntarily surrendered to pre-trial detention. The suspect, Kevin T., initially denied the racist nature of the attack but later admitted targeting the area due to its "hotbed for Islamists." Authorities had already detained him three days prior for a separate incident involving a hit-and-run accident.

No regrets were expressed by the suspect, who rejected suggestions he intended to harm children. The prosecutor highlighted the extensive preparation, including weapon acquisition and a police armband, found during the suspect's home search. Kevin T. displayed no remorse and denied any terrorist intent, viewing his actions as legitimate, citing a diverse collection of books and stickers supporting Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) party.

The suspect stated he was not affiliated with any political party and had become increasingly radicalized by far-right ideology over the past decade, blaming Arabs and Black people for society's ills. The incident has sparked protests against the normalization of racist sentiments, with political leaders condemning the influence of far-right ideologies.