Bride Killed, Groom Wounded in Deadly French Wedding Night Shooting

Avignon, France – A bride was tragically killed just hours after her wedding during a violent gun attack in a small village near Avignon early Sunday morning, according to French authorities.

The 27-year-old woman died on the scene when masked gunmen opened fire around 4:30 a.m., shortly after she and her 25-year-old groom exited their wedding reception at the local village hall. The groom and a 13-year-old child were both seriously injured and remain hospitalized.

Gunfight Erupts, One Attacker Killed

Authorities said one of the attackers was also killed during an exchange of gunfire. Initial reports suggested the suspect may have been run over by the couple’s car while fleeing, but Avignon prosecutor Florence Galtier later clarified that the suspect was fatally shot during the confrontation.

Other gunmen fled on foot, abandoning their vehicle. A manhunt is ongoing, involving dozens of police officers and a helicopter, as authorities work to locate and arrest the remaining suspects.

Possible Drug-Related Motive

Though the motive is still under investigation, French media outlets have speculated the violence may be linked to drug-related disputes in the region. Authorities have opened a criminal investigation into murder and attempted murder.

Shocked Community Reacts

The wedding had been held at a hall booked in March by individuals reportedly not from the village. Mayor Didier Perello condemned the attack as outrageous and voiced concerns about rising violence spilling into the quiet community.

Local restaurant owner Guillaume Molinas said the incident could tarnish the reputation of the village, which is home to around 1,000 residents and has not seen such violence in over a century, according to historical recollection.

In total, 28 people were inside the wedding hall during the shooting. One additional woman suffered minor injuries.