Anger growing in Paris after teen driver killed by police

By Gizem Taskin Nicollet

PARIS (AA) - France is increasing security measures Wednesday as tensions escalate following the fatal shooting of a teen by police during a traffic stop near Paris.

Nahel, 17, was shot dead by police in the suburb of Nanterre early Tuesday after he broke traffic laws and failed to stop, according to prosecutors.

A 38-year-old police officer was detained by the General Inspectorate of the National Police (IGPN) as part of the investigation into the intentional homicide by the Nanterre prosecutor’s office.

“Nothing justifies the death of a young person," President Emmanuel Macron, who described the killing as "inexplicable" and "unforgivable."

Nahel's death sparked protests in Nanterre, leading to clashes between demonstrators and police overnight.

In a TikTok video, Nahel's mother called for a march Thursday in front of the Nanterre prefecture, and said "it's a revolt for my son."

Mayor Patrick Jarry announced he will participate.

"Nanterre has experienced one of the most terrible days in its history," he said Wednesday at a news conference and demanded "justice for Nahel."

"With his family, his friends, we want justice for Nahel, we will get it through our peaceful mobilization, with his lawyers in court and with all those who have justice in their hearts," he said.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, who “called for calm,” said 2,000 police and gendarmes will be mobilized late Wednesday in the Paris suburbs, particularly in the Hauts-de-Seine, to prevent violence.

Darmanin said 31 people have been arrested and 24 police officers were injured after overnight tensions.