VILLERBANNE, LYON – A significant police operation is underway in Villeurbanne, Lyon, following reports of gunshots fired in broad daylight on Friday, February 27, 2026. According to initial reports, between four and five shots were heard around 4:30 PM in the Léon-Blum street area, near the Grand-Clément square.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred in front of several businesses, including a pharmacy, a bank, and a small supermarket, causing concern among local residents and shopkeepers. Authorities have confirmed that no injuries have been reported.
Suspect at Large
Police are actively searching for a suspect who is believed to have fired the shots with a handgun. Witnesses describe the individual as having a concealed face and fleeing the scene on a scooter. The exact motives behind the shooting remain unknown at this stage of the investigation.
Rapid Police Response and Reinforcements
The prefecture informed actu Lyon that police units, including national police, CRS (Republican Security Companies), and the CDI (Departmental Intervention Company), responded rapidly to the scene. Due to the seriousness of the incident, the prefect has announced that CRS and CDI reinforcements will be deployed to the Grand-Clément district throughout Friday evening and the weekend to ensure public safety.
Proximity to a Known Drug Dealing Spot
According to sources, the gunshots were fired near a known drug dealing spot in the area. Both the delegated prefect for security and the mayor of Villeurbanne, Cédric Van Styvandel, visited the site late Friday afternoon to assess the situation and address community concerns.
Mayor’s Concerns and Call for More Resources
Mayor Cédric Van Styvandel has been advocating for several months for increased national police resources in this sector, which has been affected by drug trafficking. While the Tonkin sector has seen some pacification, incidents of this nature highlight ongoing challenges in other parts of the city. The mayor’s office reiterated its commitment to addressing crime and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with authorities working to identify and apprehend the suspect. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Source: https://actu.fr/auvergne-rhone-alpes/villeurbanne_69266/lyon-coups-de-feu-devant-des-commerces-a-villeurbanne-intervention-de-police-en-cours_63907080.html
