Teenager's hand blown off during confrontation between France school protesters and riot police
A 15-year-old boy lost a hand in a blast during a confrontation involving police and demonstrators near a school in Lens, France. An official said his life was not in danger and that he was taken quickly to a nearby hospital.
Reports differ on how the teenager was hurt. A regional newspaper cited a girl who was nearby and said he had not picked up the grenade. Lens Mayor Sylvain Robert said the circumstances remain unclear.
A regional prosecutor said France’s police watchdog, the General Inspection of the National Police, would investigate. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has also announced an inquiry.
An official said more students had gathered outside the school than on earlier days. Riot police were sent to maintain order, and a listening and support service was set up at the school.
The boy’s lawyer said he also suffered a double jaw fracture and underwent major surgery. French media reported that his jaw was wired shut and he could consume only liquids through a straw.
Key points
- A 15-year-old was badly hurt during a confrontation near a school in Lens.
- Accounts differ about how the boy was injured; the police watchdog will investigate.
- The teenager also suffered a fractured jaw and underwent major surgery.