Lawyer files criminal complaint after teen loses hand in police grenade incident

During a press briefing, Evan's lawyer, Me Bertrand Wattez, revealed that a civil party complaint has been filed before the Béthune investigating judge, alleging criminal conduct in the police grenade incident that led to the teenager's hand amputation. Wattez called for a calm and unbiased investigation, noting the prosecutor's earlier stance that police actions complied with standard procedures and that the boy was responsible for his own injury.

The prosecutor's statement described the grenade as having been launched from roughly 80 metres, landing on the ground, and subsequently being seized by a demonstrator who triggered its explosion. The police officer who fired the grenade acted on orders and followed training guidelines, according to the prosecutor. Wattez condemned the prosecutor's pre-emptive position and urged respect for legal rights throughout the inquiry.