Europe 1 with AFP 06:21, July 15, 2022
During the fireworks of July 14, in Cholet in Maine-et-Loire, a "shooting incident" took place, causing the death of a 7-year-old boy and his 24-year-old sister.
A third person was injured.
A manslaughter investigation has been opened to determine the circumstances of the tragedy.
While the crowd had gathered to enjoy the traditional July 14 fireworks Thursday evening in Cholet (Maine-et-Loire), a 7-year-old boy and his 24-year-old sister were killed, informs the prosecutor of the Republic of Angers.
A third person was injured following a "shooting incident" during the fireworks display shortly after 11:00 p.m., prosecutor Eric Bouillard said, confirming local media reports.
An explosion among the crowd
The boy and his sister were watching the fireworks with other members of their family and were "about fifty meters from the launch pad" when the accident occurred "around 11:10 p.m. on stable ground next to the Cholet stadium", according to Mr. Bouillard.
Several witnesses speak of an "explosion" and claim to have "felt the heat of the blast".
Despite the incident, the fireworks were completed and the crowd dispersed, he said.
About 70 firefighters were dispatched to the scene, according to the Courrier de l'Ouest.
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"At this stage, no other injuries have been reported," added the magistrate, refusing to give further details.
Asked about the circumstances of the accident, the prosecutor mentioned a "shooting incident", without further details.
“It is far too early” to say more, he added.
An investigation for manslaughter was opened and entrusted to the Departmental Security.