Teen loses hand in French student protest explosion

A 15-year-old lost his hand in northern France on Monday during clashes between student protesters and riot police, an incident confirmed by local authorities. The event occurred ahead of a national demonstration organized by a student union. The teenager was hit by a police stun grenade that detonated in Lens, losing his hand and part of his forearm, according to regional newspaper La Voix du Nord. Mayor François-Xavier Lauch declined to comment on exact circumstances, noting 200-250 protesters had thrown objects at police. Another 16-year-old suffered an eye injury from alleged rubber bullets. The protests began in mid-September near Paris and have spread, with thousands detained, mostly minors. Around 400-500 schools were partially or fully closed Monday, with 24 burned or looted and 78 teachers injured. The government plans an October 27 bill making young vandals or their parents financially liable, while left-wing party LFI denies encouraging violence.