Racial Shooting in France Leaves One Dead, Refugee Injured

In the quiet town of Puget-sur-Argens, France, a shocking act of violence unfolded on Saturday evening. Akif Badur and his cousin, Ibrahim, both Kurdish refugees, were at their home when they heard gunshots. Akif recounted, "It was around 10:15 PM. I heard seven shots, very fast." Rushing outside, Akif found his neighbor, Christophe B., who had just shot and killed Hichem Miraoui. As Akif approached, Christophe B., seemingly reloading his weapon, cornered Akif against a wall and fired four more shots, striking Akif's hand. Akif escaped with injuries, while his traumatized cousin was left to grapple with the aftermath. Both cousins, who had fled Turkey to escape racism, will file a complaint. Christophe B. was brought before a judge and is likely to be incarcerated. A white march is planned for Sunday in Marseille to honor Hichem Miraoui. This tragic event underscores the urgent need to address racism and protect vulnerable communities.