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Montpellier Night-Shop Blaze Kills 19-Year-Old as Police Hunt Masked Arsonists

Prosecutors have opened an organized‑group murder investigation based on confirmed deliberate arson.

Overview

  • Two masked attackers poured a hydrocarbon accelerant, set the 24‑hour grocery on fire, and fled, according to the Montpellier prosecutor.
  • An inquiry for murder, attempted murder in an organized group, and destruction by dangerous means has been assigned to the Hérault judicial police.
  • A 19‑year‑old man died at the scene while another 19‑year‑old suffered burns and smoke inhalation but is not in life‑threatening condition.
  • About 50 residents were evacuated from the building; most later returned, though first‑floor occupants were rehoused.
  • Police detained one person around 3:30 a.m. whose description matched reports, but their involvement has not been established.