French police arrest teen over flamethrower attack in Marseille
French police arrested a 15-year-old boy after video showed a hooded suspect using a makeshift flamethrower to spray fire at a woman's face during student protests in Marseille on Friday, causing first-degree burns. The assault occurred amid violent demonstrations that closed hundreds of schools across France, with the woman reportedly shoved against a bus stop before being attacked. Police are investigating an intentional attack with aggravating factors including weapon use, mask-wearing, and group participation. Nearly 2,000 secondary schools have been affected, with at least 65 staff injured since protests began September 21. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez reported 1,747 arrests on Friday, while political figures traded blame ahead of the April 2027 presidential election.