La Rochelle, France – A 13-year-traditional student was stabbed with a folding knife at a middle school in La Rochelle, France, on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, prompting a swift police response and raising concerns about school safety. The incident underscores the growing issue of violence in schools, even in regions not typically associated with such incidents.
According to early reports, the attack occurred during class time at the Beauregard middle school. The victim, also 13 years old, sustained injuries to the shoulder and abdomen. While the attack was described as brutal, authorities have stated that the victim’s life is not currently in danger.
Police quickly apprehended the alleged assailant, a 14-year-old student at the school, who was taken into custody for attempted murder. The suspect reportedly used an “opinel” – a common type of folding knife – in the attack. He had no prior criminal record, officials confirmed.
A teacher intervened during the altercation, attempting to separate the two students before school staff secured the suspect. Approximately twenty students witnessed the stabbing.
Investigators are currently working to determine the motive behind the attack. BFMTV reported that school staff had identified the alleged attacker as facing serious family difficulties, potentially including domestic violence. The case is now in the hands of the La Rochelle judicial court.
The incident has shocked the local community and prompted questions about security measures at the school. More information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
The Beauregard middle school offers a range of pedagogical and extracurricular activities, as detailed on its website.
