French prosecutor seeks murder charges over killing of far-right activist

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Agence France-Presse in LyonFebruary 19, 2026 at 07:37 PM

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A French prosecutor is seeking murder charges against seven suspects in the death of Quentin Deranque, a far-right activist who was fatally beaten on February 12 in Lyon during a far-right protest. Most of the eleven suspects detained are reportedly from far-left movements. The killing has heightened political tensions in France ahead of upcoming elections, with the far-right National Rally party potentially gaining ground. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni commented on the killing, prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to tell her to stay out of French affairs. Macron condemned all forms of violence and called on political parties to distance themselves from it, while Italian officials emphasized the need to condemn such acts to prevent a return to past violence.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

National Rally 50% Antonio Tajani ×250% Italy ×360% Thierry Dran ×260% Giorgia Meloni ×270% Lyon ×270% Emmanuel Macron ×480% France ×290% Quentin Deranque ×490%

Keywords

far-right activist 90% murder charges 80% political violence 70% far-left movements 60% emmanuel macron 60% political tensions 50% giorgia meloni 50% public order 40%