A student was killed and three others were injured in a stabbing attack at a school in western France on Thursday, police said.

In a tragic incident that unfolded on Thursday at the Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides High School in Doulon, near Nantes, one female student lost her life and three others sustained injuries during a stabbing attack carried out by a 15-year-old student. The assailant reportedly entered two classrooms, brandishing knives, before teachers intervened and subdued him until police arrived. This act of violence has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious concerns about security in schools. French President Emmanuel Macron reacted swiftly, commending the teachers for their decisive action that may have prevented further tragedy. He expressed his condolences to the families affected by this horrendous event and emphasized that the entire nation mourns together. Reports suggest that the attacker was dressed in dark clothing, complete with a helmet and balaclava, which adds an unsettling layer to this incident. Two knives were found nearby, and a chilling twenty-page email allegedly sent from the assailant's account has been described by media as reflecting a 'grim picture of society'. These alarming elements highlight the growing concern regarding school safety not only in France but worldwide. The school lockdown lasted for hours while police secured the premises and questioned the witnesses. This created a chaotic scene outside, with anxious parents waiting for news about their children’s safety. In response to this incident, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou announced that heightened security measures would be implemented in schools across the country, which may include the installation of metal detectors. He has called for new measures to address youth violence and improve safety protocols in educational institutions. Similarly, French Education Minister Elisabeth Borne, alongside Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, visited the school, emphasizing solidarity with the victims and the educational community. Borne expressed her deep sorrow for the victims, particularly the teenage girl who tragically lost her life. This incident is part of a concerning trend, as France has seen a rise in violent attacks in and around schools in recent years. The authorities had previously commenced measures for spot checks of students' bags for weapons, indicating that this issue is not isolated and requires urgent attention. As lawmakers and education officials convene to deliberate on how to prevent such violence, the challenges posed by bullying, societal pressures, and the accessibility of weapons among youth will be at the forefront of these discussions. In light of this awful occurrence, the focus shifts to how educational institutions can best protect their students while fostering a safe learning environment. The tragic loss of life and the injuries sustained by young people remind us of the pressing need for dialogue on this critical societal issue.