A policeman shot and wounded by an inmate, in hospital

A gendarme was injured last night by a prisoner at the Helfaut hospital near Saint-Omer.

The man, who came from Longuenesse prison under military escort after attempting suicide, managed to take possession of a policeman’s service weapon. The soldier was trying to control the prisoner, who was very agitated. The man grabbed a pistol and shot the soldier, who was wounded in the knee. His life is not in danger, but he underwent emergency surgery.

An investigation into violence with a firearm against a person exercising public authority has been opened. A psychological unit was also opened for emergency personnel at the Saint-Omer region hospital centre.