Sarkozy Vows to Punish Rioters

Nicolas Sarkozy vowed to bring armed rioters to justice after visiting wounded policemen in the hospital today, saying, “Opening fire at officials has a name—attempted murder.” More police were deployed last night, bringing violence down, but buildings and cars were burned throughout Paris and Toulouse, the BBC reports. Sarkozy also promised a judicial inquiry into the deaths that ignited the riots.

Riots began after a motorcycle accident killed two teenagers. Families of the boys, who believe police were responsible for their deaths, applauded Sarkozy’s probe, saying it would bring the truth to light. Sarkozy met with them today upon his return from a state visit to China, before holding an emergency meeting with senior government officials. (More France stories.)