France Faces Outrage Over Teen Murder Linked to Phone Theft

A tragic incident in Paris has sparked widespread outrage in France after a 14-year-old student, Elias B., was fatally stabbed by two teenagers during an alleged robbery for his mobile phone. The attack occurred on Friday evening outside the Jules-Noël sports center in the 14th arrondissement. Despite efforts from a friend who administered first aid, Elias succumbed to his injuries in the hospital the following morning, according to police reports.

The suspects, aged 16 and 17, were arrested within an hour of the incident and were already known to authorities for previous offenses, including theft and robbery. They were previously scheduled to appear in juvenile court for a violent robbery. Paris police chief Laurent Nuñez stated that the attack was motivated solely by the desire to steal, describing a concerning rise in violence among minors.

In response, French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the attack as “barbaric,” while Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin announced plans to add at least 100 youth judges to address what he called a “dysfunctional” system. Lawmakers are also considering stricter penalties for young offenders as violent crimes involving juveniles continue to escalate.