Physics teacher sprayed with gasoline during La Ciotat school protest, investigation launched

During a student-led demonstration in La Ciotat, physics-chemistry teacher Thierry Laurent tried to put out a fire on a tree when a pupil allegedly sprayed him with gasoline and subsequently assaulted him. The incident was reported to the Marseille public prosecutor, which has opened an investigation for violence causing up to eight days of incapacity, with aggravating factors such as the use of a weapon, a concealed face, and the victim’s status as a public-service employee.

Laurent filed a formal complaint on Friday and has requested a meeting with the alleged attacker, which was denied. He emphasized that his main concern is preventing a repeat of the attack. Medical assessment indicates only a slight irritation in his eye, and he plans to return to the classroom on Monday. Authorities continue to search for the responsible individual.