French police arrested a man early Saturday for attempting to ignite a homemade explosive device outside a Bank of America branch in central Paris. The incident occurred around 3:25 a.m. in the 8th arrondissement, near the Champs-Élysées, and a second suspect fled the scene.
Arrest and Incident Details
- The arrest took place on March 28, 2026, at approximately 3:25 a.m. local time (0225 GMT).
- The suspect was apprehended as he tried to light the explosive device in front of the Bank of America building.
- A second individual present at the scene escaped and remains at large, according to Le Parisien.
Explosive Device
- The device comprised a five-liter container filled with an unidentified liquid and an explosive charge of about 650 grams of powder.
- It was secured and handed over to forensic experts from the Paris police laboratory for analysis.
Investigation
- The French anti-terrorism prosecutor's office opened an investigation, entrusted to the Paris police judicial unit and the General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI).
- Interior Minister Laurent Nunez praised the rapid response team, stating it thwarted a "violent terrorist attack" and urged continued vigilance.
Bank of America Response
- A Bank of America spokesperson confirmed awareness of the situation and ongoing communication with authorities.
- The Paris police authority and anti-terrorism prosecutor's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.