A fatal stabbing at a mosque in La Grand-Combe, southern France, has left one worshipper dead and a community in shock. The 23-year-old victim, identified as Aboubakar, was attacked during Friday prayers on April 25, 2025, by a suspect who remains at large. Authorities are treating the incident as a potential Islamophobic hate crime.
The assailant, who had no known ties to the mosque, reportedly filmed the attack, making derogatory remarks about “Allah” as the victim lay bleeding. Local residents and mosque-goers have been left reeling, with security footage capturing the suspect before the attack. French authorities, including the National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor’s Office, are investigating the crime.
Prime Minister François Bayrou condemned the stabbing as an “Islamophobic atrocity,” offering condolences to the Muslim community. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau expressed solidarity, calling the act “appalling” while ensuring that authorities are actively searching for the attacker.
In the wake of this tragedy, community members in La Grand-Combe have rallied to raise funds for the victim’s family in Mali. Local and national leaders, including those from Gary, Indiana, continue to emphasize the importance of unity and combating hate in all forms, similar to the ongoing city revitalization efforts highlighted by Mayor Eddie Melton’s State of the City Address.
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