Paris Concert Terrorist Attack: What We Know Now
The world remains shocked by the horrors that took place in Paris last night. While so many details remain unclear, we're going to sort through what is known at this time.
At approximately 9:00PM local time, six coordinated attacks took place in six locations throughout the French capital. The Guardian puts the death toll at 129 people, with 352 injured, 99 of whom are in critical condition. It's believed to be the largest act of violence in Paris since World War II. ISIS, the jihadist group, has claimed responsibility.
Four men attacked the Bataclan theater during a concert by the Eagles of Death Metal, opening fire on the sold-out crowd in the 1,500-seat venue, which was opened in 1865. Somewhere between 80 and 112 people were killed, with 20 more taken as hostages. All four terrorists were killed, one by police while the other three blew themselves up.
The Eagles of Death Metal released a statement that said, "We are still currently trying to determine the safety and whereabouts of all our band and crew. Our thoughts are with all of the people involved in this tragic situation." The Washington Post is reporting that all of the band's members were able to escape, however several crew members have not been accounted for. According to Radio France, the band are planning to return to the U.S.
Nick Alexander, a Brit who was selling merchandise for the band, was killed. His family issued the following statement:
It is with huge sorrow that we can confirm that our beloved Nick lost his life at the Bataclan last night. Nick was not just our brother, son and uncle, he was everyone’s best friend - generous, funny and fiercely loyal. Nick died doing the job he loved and we take great comfort in knowing how much he was cherished by his friends around the world. Thank you for your thoughts and respect for our family at this difficult time. Peace and light.
Another group, the Arcs, a side project of Black Keys frontman Dan Auerbach, tweeted, "We are safe and in our bus on the highway headed to the border. Thanks to all for the messages of concern."
The attacks have resonated throughout the rock world. U2, who were in the middle of a four-night stay at the AccorHotels Arena, have canceled both tonight's and Sunday's concerts. Tonight's show was scheduled to be broadcast live on HBO. French police have also ordered that Motorhead's show at the Zenith de Paris tomorrow night be canceled.
Foo Fighters have canceled the remaining four dates on their European tour, which included a stop in Paris on Monday at the AccorHotels Arena. They released a statement saying, "It is with profound sadness and heartfelt concern for everyone in Paris that we have been forced to announce the cancellation of the rest of our tour. In light of this senseless violence, the closing of borders, and international mourning, we can't continue right now. There is no other way to say it. This is crazy and it sucks. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who was hurt or who lost a loved one."
Of the other five attacks, four restaurants and bars were targeted, with at least 36 killed. Outside the Stade de France, where France was playing Germany in an international friendly soccer match, four were killed as a result of three suicide bombers. French President Francois Hollande was in attendance, and was evacuated to safety.
World leaders have responded by offering their condolences and support, with President Barack Obama calling it "an attack on all of humanity and the universal values we share." Pope Francis said, "There is no religious or human justification for it."