Assistant Fatally Stabbed by Teen in Haute‑Marne
A horrifying knife attack shattered a peaceful morning at Françoise‑Dolto collège in Nogent (Haute‑Marne) when 31‑year‑old school assistant Mélanie G. was fatally stabbed by a 14‑year‑old student during routine bag checks. The tragedy has ignited national debate on school safety, knife violence, and mental health support in France.
Fatal Knife Attack Outside Middle School
Just after 8 a.m., gendarmes were conducting random bag checks—a protocol introduced in March after a spike in school violence. Without warning, the teenage boy drew a blade and stabbed Mélanie multiple times. Emergency services rushed her to the hospital, where she died later that morning
The attacker also lightly injured a gendarme before being restrained and placed into custody. He has no prior criminal record and is currently under psychiatric evaluation, while authorities investigate whether the stabbing was premeditated .
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Who Was Mélanie? A Profile in Compassion
Career change driven by illness: Former hairdresser, Mélanie became a school assistant in September 2024 due to Crohn’s disease, which made standing long hours difficult
Devoted mother & community leader: She leaves behind a 4‑year‑old son and had recently entered a civil partnership. Since 2020, she served as a municipal councillor in Sarcey.
Beloved personality: Known for her optimism, warmth, and dedication—colleagues recall she was “always smiling, deeply respected by students” .
The Suspect: Troubled but “Normal”?
A 14‑year‑old 3ᵉ-grade student, formerly anti-bullying ambassador—unexpectedly violent
Though never flagged by police, school records show disciplinary incidents: punching in November and an attempted choking in early 2025
National Shock and Political Ripples
Thousands mourned as President Emmanuel Macron condemned the act as a “senseless wave of violence” and called for national unity
Prime Minister François Bayrou announced:
- A ban on knife sales to minors
- Pilots for security gates/metal detectors at schools
- Continued random bag checks and patrols
Since March, over 6,000 schools have been inspected, yielding 186 confiscated knives and nearly 600 weapon-related disciplinary actions
Nogent in Mourning
This tight-knit town of 3,500 residents has come to a stand‑still. School is suspended until Wednesday, and crisis counselors have been deployed. Vigils, sympathy posts, and poignant tributes are spreading on social media, honoring Mélanie’s legacy.