Two days after the shocking incident at Hyrôme High School in Chemillé-en-Anjou, near Angers, the investigation into the teacher stabbing is progressing significantly. The 18-year-old high school student, who was taken into police custody immediately after the event, has been presented to an investigating judge and indicted for three assassination attempts, according to Angers public prosecutor, Éric Bouillard. The student has been placed in pre-trial detention.
Initial findings reveal that the student meticulously planned his actions several days in advance, targeting two classmates in addition to the unsuspecting teacher he attacked. On Monday morning, around 9:55 a.m., the student, previously unknown to the law, used a knife concealed in his bag to attack his teacher, cutting her cheek.
The professor, though injured, did not suffer life-threatening wounds. The student fled the scene through a window but was swiftly apprehended by the municipal police. Initially, the high school student mentioned feeling 'unhappiness in his life,' and the investigation confirmed that the teacher was not intentionally targeted. Éric Bouillard emphasized that the victim was not 'chosen in advance' and had the misfortune of being the first teacher of the day.
Further inquiries indicated that the final-year student targeted two classmates as well, and had purchased the knife days before the attack. The student had been attending the high school for three years and had just returned after a brief illness. Witnesses reported he was in high spirits prior to the incident. The prosecutor ruled out any religious or radicalization motives behind the attack.
The teacher, an experienced professional in her fifties with over two decades of service at Hyrôme High School, faces a challenging psychological recovery despite the physical injuries being minor. The school, accommodating 160 students, has since implemented a psychological support unit for both students and educators.
- After the attack, authorities quickly responded and managed to lift the confinement of the establishment around noon, ensuring the safety and security of the students and staff. A psychological listening unit was promptly set up to provide support to those affected.
- The investigative efforts have now revealed the suspect had no previous history with law enforcement or any unfavorable reports within the educational establishment. This has heightened the scrutiny on preemptive measures within school environments to detect and address underlying student issues.
- The Hyrôme High School prides itself on a personalized educational approach with specialized training in fast and collective catering and digital sciences. This tragic incident has prompted a broader discussion on campus safety, mental health support, and preventive strategies in educational institutions.
