Paris Montparnasse Knife Attack Police Shoot Unarmed Suspect

Police in Paris shot and wounded a knife-wielding man inside the busy Montparnasse train station on Friday, triggering moments of panic among evening commuters and raising fresh concerns over public safety in one of the city’s major transport hubs.

The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed that a 34-year-old man armed with a knife confronted officers inside the station shortly before authorities opened fire. According to officials, the attacker was shot in the leg when he refused to comply with police orders. In a dramatic turn, the man then stabbed himself in the throat before officers were able to secure and restrain him.

Emergency medical teams responded within minutes, treating the wounded suspect and transporting him to a nearby hospital. Police officials said his condition was stabilised but critical, and no civilians or officers were seriously injured during the incident.

Witnesses described scenes of confusion as travellers rushed away from the commotion. Some reported hearing a gunshot followed by urgent warnings to clear the area, while others saw officers sprinting toward the suspect.

Authorities have not yet released details on the man’s identity or motive. The incident comes at a sensitive time for France, which remains on high alert following recent threats and isolated acts of violence across the country. Montparnasse, one of Paris’s largest railway terminals, handles thousands of daily passengers—including international travellers—making security breaches especially concerning.

The prosecutor’s office said an investigation has been opened to determine the circumstances leading up to the confrontation and whether the suspect had any prior criminal record or links to extremist activity.

Officials praised the swift response of emergency services and emphasized that the immediate threat was contained. Additional patrols were deployed around the station following the incident as a precautionary measure.

As France prepares for a busy winter travel season, authorities are expected to review security protocols in major transport hubs to prevent potential copycat incidents. For many Parisians, Friday’s attack is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that persist in crowded public spaces—and of the rapid decisions police must make to neutralize sudden threats.