Syringe Attacks Shock Fête de la Musique Festival-Goers in France

A disturbing wave of syringe attacks has marred the vibrant Fête de la Musique, France’s beloved street music festival, leaving authorities scrambling to unravel the mystery. Over 145 festival-goers in the Paris region reported being pricked by needles, with twelve suspects now in custody, according to local reports.

The attacks, which targeted predominantly young women aged 14 to 20, sparked outrage and fear. Metz mayor François Grosdidier condemned the 'cowardly aggressions' on social media, noting that nearly 150 women nationwide were victims. Paramedics were deployed in droves to assist those affected.

Rumors of coordinated attacks swirled online, with French influencer Abrège Soeur warning on Instagram about Snapchat calls to 'prick people with contaminated syringes.' The chilling possibility of date-rape drugs like Rohypnol or GHB remains unconfirmed, deepening public unease.

This isn’t just a French problem. The UK reported a spike in similar incidents in 2021, with a National Police Chiefs’ Council study highlighting that women are the primary targets. Victims face not only physical risks but also lasting trauma and fear of social spaces, compounded by concerns over blood-borne diseases.

As investigations continue, the festival’s joyful spirit has been overshadowed by a grim reality: public safety is under threat, and answers are in short supply.