French authorities have detained nine individuals in connection with the death of 23-year-old Quentin Deranque, a right-wing activist from Lyon. The mathematics student died from injuries sustained during a brutal attack last Thursday. Among those apprehended is a parliamentary assistant from the La France Insoumise party. The incident has sent shockwaves through the French political scene, leading to intense debate about escalating violence between radical groups.

Detention of Suspects

French police have apprehended 9 individuals linked to the tragic beating of a young mathematics student that occurred in Lyon.

Political Thread in the Investigation

Among those detained is a parliamentary assistant to an MP from the La France Insoumise party, which has sparked a political storm in France.

Call for De-escalation

President Emmanuel Macron called for calm and restraint, fearing a wave of retaliatory attacks between radicals.

French law enforcement has taken decisive action following a tragic incident in Lyon that occurred on February 12, 2026. The victim of the brutal assault was Quentin Deranque, a 23-year-old student and right-wing activist. According to information provided by prosecutor Thierry Dran, nine suspects were arrested last Tuesday. The case gained nationwide significance when details emerged about one of the detainees – a staff member from a parliamentary office belonging to La France Insoumise (LFI), casting a shadow on the left-wing party. The course of events remains under intense investigation. It is known that Deranque was attacked by a group of individuals on Thursday evening and died in the hospital on Saturday, February 14, due to head injuries. The Prosecutor's Office in Lyon is working to precisely identify the role of each detainee in this act of violence. Investigators are analyzing CCTV footage and witness statements to determine if the attack was a planned ambush. France has been grappling with increasing political polarization for years, which in the past has led to tragic clashes, such as the death of Clément Méric in 2013, which became a symbol of conflicts between the far left and right. President Emmanuel Macron condemned the incident, calling for calm and mutual respect. The event has raised legitimate concerns about potential retaliatory acts from right-wing circles. Public debate is currently focused on the responsibility of political formations for rhetoric that may radicalize social sentiments. The MP, whose assistant was detained, has distanced himself from the violence, but the opposition is demanding explanations regarding his staff's connections with antifa circles. 9 — individuals detained in connection with the activist's killing Chronology of Events in Lyon: — ; — ; — ; —

Mentioned People

  • Quentin Deranque — 23-year-old mathematics student and far-right activist who died as a result of a beating in Lyon.
  • Thierry Dran — Prosecutor leading the investigation into the killing in Lyon.
  • Emmanuel Macron — President of France, who called for calm and respect following the tragic events.