Earlier today in Paris, an unprecedented series of terrorist attacks have been reported. Initial statements indicate shootings and bombings occurred in at least five locations throughout the city. At the Bataclan concert venue during a performance by American band Eagles of Death Metal, hostages were taken, and shots rang out among the crowd of approximately 1,500 attendees. There was a reported suicide bombing near the Stade de France stadium, where a soccer match between Germany and France was taking place. In addition, at least three other shootings reportedly took place in Le Carillon, Le Petit Cambodge, and La Belle Equipe.

According to CNN, French officials have stated at least 153 people were killed in these tragic events, at least 112 of whom were at the Bataclan concert venue.  Five of the terrorist perpetrators have been reported dead at this time, and the French borders have been officially closed as police forces investigate the attacks.

In response to these events, French President Francois Hollande stated, “Faced with terror, France must be strong, it must be great and the state authorities must be firm. … There is dread, but in the face of this dread, there is a nation that knows how to defend itself, that knows how to mobilise its forces and, once again, will defeat the terrorists.”

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For live news updates on the situation in Paris, you can view the BBC live news feed here.

Written by Patrick McCarthy