French anti-terrorism prosecutors take over investigation of Aubagne school shooting

The French national anti-terrorism prosecutor (PNAT) announced that it is now leading the inquiry into the shooting at Aubagne's Lakanal college, after the Marseille prosecutor withdrew. The incident was carried out by a 14-year-old third-grader who shot the school principal and a teacher, both of whom sustained injuries. Initial analysis of the suspect's electronic devices points to a possible affiliation with the "True Crime Community," an online network that celebrates perpetrators of mass violence.

The case has been reclassified to include charges related to attempted murder linked to a terrorist enterprise and illegal weapon possession. Responsibility for the investigation has been assigned to the Sous-direction antiterroriste, the Direction générale de la sécurité intérieure (DGSI) and the southern zone of the national police. Authorities are continuing to examine the digital footprint and motives of the young assailant.