Lyon Student Dies After Attack During Political Exhibition
Lyon, France – february 15, 2026 – A 23-year-old man, identified as Quentin D., has died in hospital from injuries sustained during a violent attack in Lyon on Thursday, February 13th. The attack occurred during a demonstration coinciding with a conference held by Rima Hassan, a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for La France Insoumise (LFI), at the Institute of Political Studies (Sciences Po) Euronews.
Details of the Incident
Quentin D. was providing security for members of the right-wing group Collectif Némésis, who were protesting Hassan’s visit. He suffered severe head injuries during the altercation and was initially admitted to the hospital in critical condition, placed in a medically induced coma. Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, February 15th. The Lyon Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched an inquiry, classifying the incident as aggravated manslaughter.
Official Reactions and condemnation
French President emmanuel Macron expressed his condolences to the family and loved ones of Quentin D. in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter). He condemned the violence, stating that ideological differences can never justify taking a life and emphasizing the importance of civil debate within a democratic society. Macron pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice Euronews.
Political figures across the spectrum have condemned the attack. Bruno Retailleau, leader of The Republicans party, described the killing as evidence of “extreme violence” from groups associated with LFI. Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally, called for the groups involved to be considered terrorist organizations.
Responding to these accusations, Manuel Bompard, coordinator for LFI, urged against implicating Hassan or the party in the tragedy. Hassan herself condemned the attack and stated that her security detail was not involved.
Vandalism of LFI Offices
Following the attack, several LFI offices across france were vandalized. Jean-Luc Mélenchon, founder and leader of LFI, attributed the vandalism to the accusations made by Retailleau and Le Pen, claiming they exploited the tragedy to incite violence against the party Euronews.
Ongoing Investigation
As of February 15, 2026, the perpetrators of the attack remain unidentified, and police are continuing their investigation. Sciences Po lyon has yet to release a statement regarding the incident that occurred on its premises.
Key Takeaways
- A 23-year-old man, Quentin D., died after being attacked during a political demonstration in Lyon.
- The attack occurred during a protest against LFI MEP Rima Hassan’s visit to Sciences Po.
- french President Macron condemned the violence and pledged to find those responsible.
- The incident has sparked political controversy and led to vandalism of LFI offices.
- The investigation is ongoing, and the perpetrators remain at large.