Particle.news

Five Held Over Dijon College Arson After CCTV and DNA Traces

Prosecutors say the attack likely stemmed from reprisals for recent anti-drug operations in the Grésilles neighborhood.

Overview

  • Police arrested four male minors aged 15 to 17 and a 27-year-old woman in the Dijon area, and all were placed in custody.
  • Two minors are already implicated in drug-trafficking proceedings, the other two are known for common delinquency, and the woman has no prior record.
  • Investigators cite multiple ignition points, petrol jerrycans, a recovered glove, and obstructed fire doors, with none of the minors enrolled at the school.
  • A judicial inquiry is underway for organized arson and criminal association, offenses carrying up to 20 years in prison and a €150,000 fine.
  • About twenty classrooms were destroyed for roughly 500 pupils, teaching continues in temporary spaces, and repairs are expected to run for months with a target of September 2026 for full reopening.