French police have shot and killed an armed suspect who appeared to be planning a synagogue attack, the interior minister has said.
The incident in Rouen, northern France, on Friday morning happened after the individual was intent on setting fire to the town’s synagogue, Gerald Darmanin said.
“I congratulate [national police officers] for their reactivity and their courage,” he added.
According to regional authorities, the man was carrying a knife and an iron bar. His identity and motive are unclear.
Local broadcaster France 3 reported fire fighters were at the scene.
Rouen mayor Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol also said on social media the town is “bruised and in shock”.
The president of France’s Consistoire Central Jewish worshippers body Elie Korchia said police “avoided another anti-Semitic tragedy”.
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