Six injured in Valence shooting as French police investigate gun attack

Wednesday 05 August 2026 - 08:00

By: Sahili Aya

Six injured in Valence shooting as French police investigate gun attack

French authorities have launched an investigation after six people were injured in a shooting in the city of Valence, where attackers opened fire on a group before fleeing the scene.

The incident occurred on Tuesday evening in the Polygone district. According to police, the suspects arrived in a vehicle, fired multiple shots at the group and quickly left the area.

One victim reported in critical condition

Emergency services treated six victims—five men and one woman—who are reported to be between 15 and 22 years old.

Police said one of the injured remains in critical condition, while the others were also hospitalized with gunshot wounds.

Investigators are working to determine the motive behind the attack and whether the victims were specifically targeted.

Burned vehicle discovered nearby

Shortly after the shooting, authorities located a burned vehicle several kilometres from the crime scene. Investigators are examining whether it was the same car used by the attackers during the assault.

Forensic teams have begun collecting evidence, while police continue searching for those responsible.

Investigation underway

The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, and no arrests had been announced at the time of publication.

The case adds to ongoing concerns over gun violence in parts of France, where investigators are increasingly examining links between shootings, organized crime and local criminal networks when such incidents occur. Authorities have not yet indicated whether this attack is connected to any wider criminal activity.

The investigation is continuing as police seek witnesses, review evidence and establish the sequence of events that led to the attack.