A violent armed brawl erupted on Monday evening, February 2nd, around 10:30 PM, outside a known squat located at 91 Cours Richard-Vitton in the Montchat district of Lyon. The incident, which involved gunshots and other weapons, resulted in three minor injuries and the arrest of four individuals.
Details of the Altercation
According to initial reports from the national police, who were called to the scene after residents heard gunshots, the altercation involved groups identified as Roma and undocumented Algerian individuals. State services confirmed on Tuesday morning that the fight took place “in front of a well-known squat.” During the confrontation, the storefront of a former hair salon was shattered.
Rapid Police Intervention
The Departmental Intervention Company (CDI) and the Anti-Crime Brigade (BAC) quickly responded to the scene. Their intervention led to the arrest of four individuals suspected of involvement in the violence. Among those apprehended were a man armed with an axe, another carrying a stick, the person responsible for firing gunshots, and an accomplice who had entered the building at number 91 with the shooter.
Injuries and Neighborhood Impact
Three individuals sustained minor injuries in the brawl, including a man and a woman who were hit by small pellets. They were treated by firefighters, and two of them were subsequently transported to the hospital. Authorities confirmed that none of their injuries were life-threatening. The squat itself was not evacuated following the incident.
The Montchat district, particularly its northern part, is typically known for its tranquility. However, residents have reported a significant increase in disturbances and anti-social behavior in recent months. “In less than a year, the atmosphere of the neighborhood has completely changed,” residents testified in mid-January, highlighting growing concerns about public safety and quality of life in the area.
Ongoing Investigation
The police are continuing their investigation into the exact circumstances of the brawl and the motivations behind it. The arrests are expected to shed more light on the incident and potentially lead to further actions to address the underlying issues contributing to such confrontations in the neighborhood.
