Retailleau admits false link to LFI

Bruno Retailleau, president of the Les Républicains party, admitted on October 15 that he incorrectly claimed a connection between La France insoumise (LFI) and the 14-year-old student accused of shooting at a college in Aubagne, which injured three people. He made the admission during an interview with RTL but continued to criticize LFI.

Retailleau’s continued criticism of LFI

Retailleau reiterated his opposition to LFI, which is led by Jean-Luc Mélenchon, and has positioned the party as his main opponent in the upcoming presidential election. He previously condemned LFI as a "seditious party" and "fascinated by violence" and had suggested the possibility of banning the party.

Retailleau’s earlier social media claim

Retailleau had previously posted on X that the shooting was part of a climate of violence and impunity maintained by LFI through its speeches against institutions. This statement remained on his X account as of October 15.

Suspect influenced by online movement

The national anti-terrorism prosecutor's office (Pnat) has revealed that the suspect was influenced by the "True Crime Community," a movement centered around fascination with mass shootings in the United States. However, the teenager denied acting in the name of this community.

Suspect’s claim of revenge

The suspect stated that his actions were motivated by a desire for revenge due to bullying, though this claim has not been corroborated by the investigation. The authorities are still examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.