Dozens Hospitalized After Syringe Attacks at France's National Music Festival

Police in France are investigating a bizarre syringe attack at Saturday’s Fêtes de la Musique, or World Music Day, celebrations on Saturday.

Nearly 150 people—many of them teenage girls—were attacked with syringes during France’s nationwide Fêtes de la Musique festival on Saturday, triggering national alarm and prompting an ongoing investigation. According to authorities, 145 victims reported being jabbed with needles containing unknown substances during the popular summer solstice celebration, which drew millions across the country.

The first incident occurred around 9:15 p.m. in Metz, where local officials used security footage to identify and arrest a suspect. Firefighters set up an emergency response zone in the area, while multiple victims were hospitalized and underwent toxicology tests.

Millions of people across France attended Saturday’s Fêtes de la Musique

Twelve suspects have been arrested in connection with the attacks, which occurred in several cities, including 13 reported cases in Paris. Officials have not confirmed whether the syringes contained sedatives or drugs commonly associated with chemical assaults.

Despite online warnings circulating on Snapchat and other platforms, massive crowds—50,000 in Metz alone—still attended the events, which featured performances by professional and amateur musicians across public spaces.

Police arrested 12 suspects whom they believe were involved in the twisted syringe attacks, the Interior Ministry said

Authorities continue to examine phone records and forensic evidence to determine the attackers' motives and whether a coordinated effort was involved.