By Yusuf Ozcan
PARIS (AA): At least three people were killed and 13 others injured Tuesday when a gunman opened fire in the French city of Strasbourg, according to local authorities.
The incident took place close to the historic Christmas market in Place Kleber square. Manhunt against the gunmen continues. Interior Ministry says they are not sure if this was a terrorist attack.
Out of 13 people who are injured, 8 are in severe condition.
France’s security alert system Vigipirate, has increased its threat to highest level, Emergency alert.
The prefect of France’s Bas-Rhin region announced that the attacker had been identified as a 29 year old man but had escaped on foot after being cornered by police, during which there had been an exchange of gunfire. A search for the assailant is now underway.
The suspected gunman was known to the police for petty crimes and was on terror list.
The incident was being evaluated as a terror attack, the prefect added.
The gunman was injured during the clash with security forces before escaping, according to French media reports.
“Shooting in the center of Strasbourg. Thank you all for staying home and waiting for a clarification of the situation,” Strasbourg’s deputy mayor, Alain Fontanel, wrote on Twitter.
Additional report by The Muslim News
[Photo: French police officers and soldiers stand guard next to shooting site at the Christmas Market in Strasbourg, France on December 11, 2018. Photographer: Elyxandro Cegarra/AA]
