Overview

• Hichem Miraoui, a 46-year-old Tunisian hairdresser, was fatally shot by neighbor Christophe B. in Puget-sur-Argens on May 31, with the suspect arrested after his partner alerted police.
• The National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office assumed control of the case following evidence of a racist motive and possible terrorist intent.
• Christophe B. posted multiple videos on social media before and after the attack, using racial slurs and calling for violence against Muslims and North Africans.
• Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has described the killing as a racist and potentially terrorist crime, even as critics accuse his immigration policies of fueling anti-Muslim sentiment.
• A 72% surge in anti-Muslim incidents this quarter has spurred Muslim leaders and Puget-sur-Argens residents to plan a silent march this Sunday to denounce hatred and demand accountability.