A wedding celebration in the quiet southeastern French village of Goult turned into a horrifying tragedy early Sunday morning after armed assailants opened fire, killing two people, including the bride, and injuring three others.
According to a source close to the investigation, the attack occurred at around 4:30 am (0230 GMT) as the festivities were winding down. The newlyweds were reportedly leaving the venue when masked gunmen confronted them outside and opened fire without warning.
In a desperate attempt to escape the chaos, the bride and groom tried to flee in their car. In the process, they fatally struck one of the attackers. Tragically, the bride succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained during the ambush. The groom survived the attack but was among the three individuals injured and was rushed to a nearby hospital along with the others.
Authorities have launched a massive manhunt to track down the remaining suspects, deploying approximately 100 police officers to the scene and surrounding areas. Forensic teams were seen combing the crime scene for evidence, while investigators work to piece together the sequence of events and uncover the motive behind the assault.
“All lines of inquiry are being pursued,” the source said, “including the possibility that this was a settling of scores.” This suggests investigators are not ruling out personal or organized crime connections to the shooting.
The attack has shocked the typically peaceful village of Goult, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, known more for its picturesque landscapes than violent crime. Local authorities and residents expressed outrage and sorrow over the brutal attack, which has shaken the community to its core.
Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin has yet to issue a formal statement, but officials say the national government is closely monitoring the investigation.
As police continue their search for the perpetrators, the incident has reignited concerns about gun violence and public safety even in small, rural communities in France. The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of how celebrations of love and unity can, in a moment, be shattered by senseless violence.
