French Satire Magazine Charlie Hebdo Victim of “a Terrorist Attack”
The office of a satirical magazine in Paris was attacked when two gunmen burst in and began firing, killing at least 12 including the publications editor, before apparently fleeing on foot. CNN is reporting that a manhunt is underway, and that police and journalists were among the victims. At least four people are hospitalized in critical condition. A witness told French Media “We then heard them open fire inside, with many shots. We were all evacuated to the roof. After several minutes, the men fled, after having continued firing in the middle of the street.” Another witness reported seeing a rocket launcher.
The reason for the attack is believed to be over a cartoon. A FUCKING CARTOON.
French President Francois Holland made a statement that “We are threatened because we are a country of freedom.” He also tweeted “No barbarous act will ever extinguish freedom of the press,” he said. “We are a united country.”
Four cartoonists and the magazine’s editor are among the dead, targeted for their satire in a military style attack.
Details are still developing. Go to cnn.com for ongoing coverage.
