French police sniper accidentally shoots two people during Francois Hollande speech
Marksman was positioned on a roof around 100m from the tent where the president was inaugurating a new train line
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A French police sniper has accidentally shot and injured two people during a speech by President Francois Hollande.
The sharpshooter was on a roof about a hundred metres away from a tent where Mr Hollande was inaugurating a new fast train line in the western town of Villognon.
A waiter and a train company employee were wounded, one in the leg and the other in the ankle, local media reports.
The safety on the marksman's rifle was reportedly off and the shot was fired while he was changing position, Sud-Ouest reported.
"I hope it is nothing serious," Mr Hollande said as his speech was interrupted by a loud gunshot. After looking to his left, he said "I don't think so" and continued.
Officials have launched a judicial investigation.
The two wounded people did not have life-threatening injuries, a prefect of police for the Charente region, Pierre N'Gahane, told BFM-TV.
Local media said Mr Hollande went to comfort the two wounded people after the shooting.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments