Celebrations turned violent across France as two people were killed and hundreds arrested following Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) Champions League triumph.

A 17-year-old was fatally stabbed in the southwestern town of Dax, while a 23-year-old man died in central Paris after a scooter collision, local authorities confirmed.

Scenes of chaotic celebrations saw cars set ablaze, shop windows smashed, and fireworks launched as PSG fans marked the club’s first-ever Champions League title. 

The French Interior Ministry reported 192 injuries, including 22 police officers and seven firefighters, as security forces struggled to contain the unrest.

Despite the violence, PSG’s victory parade proceeded as planned on Sunday, with the team making their way down the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe on an open-top bus. Police imposed a cap of 100,000 fans at the event, deploying 5,400 officers to maintain order.

Authorities arrested 559 individuals nationwide, including 491 in Paris, while riot police resorted to tear gas and water cannons to disperse unruly crowds. 

One officer was placed in an induced coma after being injured by fireworks, prompting President Emmanuel Macron to condemn the clashes as "unacceptable."

While most fans celebrated peacefully, with the Eiffel Tower illuminated in PSG’s colors, reports emerged of looting near Place des Ternes, with police detaining 30 suspects.

French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau denounced the violence, stating, "True PSG supporters enjoyed their team’s magnificent match, while criminals exploited the celebrations."

Authorities remain on high alert, with fears of further unrest as PSG’s celebrations continue.

Source: BBC

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