Paris Erupts in Violence After PSG Champions League Win

Paris Erupts After PSG Victory: Hundreds Arrested Amidst Clashes and Arson Paris, France – Celebrations marking Paris Saint-Germain's historic Champions League victory against Inter Milan descended into chaos late Wednesday night. What began as jubilant scenes quickly turned violent as fans clashed with police across the French capital. The Champs-Élysées, typically a scene of festive celebration, became a battleground. Footage circulating on social media shows vehicles engulfed in flames, while police officers struggled to control the surging crowds, deploying tear gas in response to projectiles thrown by rioters. "It was terrifying," said one eyewitness, who asked not to be identified. "The atmosphere changed so quickly. One minute people were cheering, the next, there was smoke and fire everywhere." Paris police reported nearly 300 arrests, many on suspicion of possessing fireworks and inciting public disorder. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the violence in a social media post, stating, "Barbarians have taken to the streets of Paris to commit crimes and provoke the police." Firefighters worked through the night to extinguish numerous blazes, while police continued to restore order. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for even joyous occasions to turn destructive. The events raise questions about crowd control and security measures during large-scale celebrations. The city of Paris is likely to review its strategies for managing similar events in the future.