Champions League Victory Turns Tragic Deaths and Coma Mar PSG Celebrations

2 fans died and an officer is in a coma after Champions League celebrations in France - NBC News

Tragedy Mars PSG's Champions League Triumph: Celebrations Turn Deadly in France


Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) historic Champions League victory has been overshadowed by tragic events that unfolded during nationwide celebrations. While the team basked in the glory of their **5-0 win over Inter Milan**, claiming their first Champions League title, authorities are grappling with the aftermath of fan-related incidents that resulted in fatalities and serious injuries.


In a somber turn of events, French authorities have confirmed the deaths of two fans and the critical injury of a police officer amidst the jubilant, but at times unruly, celebrations that erupted across the country on Saturday night.


The incidents include:

  • A **17-year-old boy fatally stabbed** in Dax during a PSG street party following the final match in Munich.
  • A man killed in Paris after his scooter was struck by a car amidst the PSG celebrations.
  • A police officer in Coutance, northwest France, placed in an **artificial coma due to severe eye injuries** sustained after being hit by fireworks.

The interior minister's office confirmed the death in Paris, and investigations are underway to determine the precise circumstances surrounding both fatalities. The injury of the police officer casts a further shadow over what should have been a moment of national pride.


Despite the deployment of **5,400 police officers** on the Champs-Élysées, key areas of Paris, and its suburbs, security measures were not enough to prevent all incidents. While the majority of celebrations remained peaceful, pockets of violence flared up, leading to hundreds of arrests.


Key highlights from the night include:

  • **294 arrests** were made by 2 a.m. Sunday.
  • 30 individuals were apprehended for breaking into a shoe shop on the Champs-Élysées.
  • Two cars were set ablaze near the Parc des Princes.

At the top of the Champs-Élysées avenue, law enforcement utilized a water cannon near the Arc de Triomphe to manage a large crowd attempting to breach a barrier and confront the police.


However, amidst the chaos, moments of pure joy and unbridled enthusiasm were also witnessed. At the Place de la Bastille, fans exuberantly celebrated, climbing onto the column, singing, dancing, and igniting flares. The atmosphere remained largely positive in that area until the early hours of the morning.


The team is still expected to participate in a parade on the Champs-Elysees, however, it is expected to be a more solemn celebration.


These tragic events serve as a stark reminder of how quickly celebrations can turn sour, and the importance of maintaining order and ensuring public safety during large-scale gatherings. Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased and the injured officer as they navigate this difficult time. This victory, forever etched in PSG's history, will undoubtedly be remembered with a tinge of sadness due to the unfortunate events that transpired.


Tags: PSG Victory, Champions League, Paris, Football, Fan Death, Police Officer, Coma, Celebrations, Soccer, France

Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/world/europe/2-fans-died-officer-coma-champions-league-celebrations-france-rcna210198

Comments