Fact Check: Nearly 150 People Stabbed with Syringes at French Music Festivals!
What We Know
Recent reports indicate that 145 people across France, including 13 in Paris, reported being stabbed with syringes during the annual Fête de la Musique festival held on June 21, 2025. This alarming incident led to the arrest of 12 suspects in connection with the stabbings, as confirmed by French officials (source-1). Some victims were taken to hospitals for toxicological tests, although details about the substances involved have not been disclosed (source-4).
The Fête de la Musique is a long-standing event in France, celebrated for over four decades, where musicians perform in public spaces. Despite the small number of reported incidents compared to the millions who attended the festival, the occurrences of needle spiking have raised significant concerns (source-6).
Analysis
The claims regarding the syringe stabbings are corroborated by multiple reputable sources. The New York Times reported the same figures and circumstances, emphasizing the seriousness of the reports and the police's response (source-1). Additionally, France 24 and Global News provided similar accounts, confirming the number of victims and the arrests made (source-4, source-6).
However, experts like Dr. Adam R. Winstock have pointed out that needle spiking incidents are relatively rare and often lack toxicological confirmation of drug administration (source-1). He suggested that some reports might stem from panic rather than actual drugging incidents. This caution is echoed by police officials who acknowledge that while the reports are serious, they are also approached with a degree of skepticism (source-4).
The credibility of the sources reporting these incidents is high, as they include established news organizations known for their journalistic integrity. However, the potential for misinformation or exaggeration in chaotic situations like festivals should always be considered.
Conclusion
The claim that "nearly 150 people were stabbed with syringes at French music festivals" is True. The reports from multiple reliable sources confirm that 145 individuals reported such incidents during the Fête de la Musique, and 12 arrests were made in connection with these events. While experts caution about the rarity of confirmed drugging incidents, the initial reports of needle stabbings are substantiated by official statements and media coverage.
Sources
- Nearly 150 Report Being Jabbed With Needles at French Music Festival - New York Times
- Nearly 150 Report Being Jabbed With Needles at French ... - New York Times
- Yandex - Wikipedia - Wikipedia
- Syringe attacks mar France's Fête de la Musique summer street festival - France 24
- Yandex — fast Internet search - Yandex
- 145 people stabbed with syringes at France music festival, 12 arrested - Global News
- Teen girls among 145 stabbed with syringes across France at popular ... - New York Post
- Wave of syringe attacks darkens France's street music festival - RFI
