On Saturday, May 10, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Évian-les-Bains, Haute-Savoie, when a 38-year-old volunteer firefighter was seriously injured while attempting to intervene during an urban rodeo in front of the local fire station. The firefighter, who was reportedly trying to stop the reckless behavior of several vehicles performing dangerous maneuvers, was deliberately struck by a car, leading to life-threatening injuries.
The events began in the early hours of the morning when multiple vehicles were seen engaging in a wild rodeo, disturbing the peace in the area. Around 6:00 AM, three firefighters, including the injured man, stepped outside to address the situation. As they approached the vehicles, tensions escalated. Eyewitnesses reported that one driver accelerated directly at the firefighter, resulting in a violent collision that sent him flying several meters into the air before he crashed to the ground, hitting a wall.
Emergency services were quickly on the scene, and the injured firefighter was airlifted to the hospital in Annecy, where he remains in critical condition. The prefecture of Haute-Savoie confirmed that his prognosis is life-threatening, stirring deep concern among his colleagues and the community.
Martial Saddier, president of the departmental council and the SDIS of Haute-Savoie, expressed his shock and support for the injured firefighter's family and fellow firefighters. “We are devastated,” he stated in an emotional response. “I think of the firefighters who witnessed this, and his family.”
Authorities acted swiftly following the incident. The driver of the vehicle involved, an 18-year-old man known to police for previous offenses, was arrested shortly after the event. He is suspected of having deliberately targeted the firefighter. Additionally, two other motorists involved in the rodeo have been identified through video surveillance and are currently being sought by the police.
The prefect of Haute-Savoie, Emmanuelle Dubée, also conveyed her support, stating, “I express my full support to his relatives and to his firefighter colleagues, professional or volunteer, particularly present at the scene.”
This incident comes amid growing concerns about urban rodeos, which have been described as a “scourge” by the Minister of Justice, Gérald Darmanin. Just a day before the incident, Darmanin had issued a circular urging prosecutors to take a firmer stance against these dangerous activities. He emphasized the need for the systematic seizure of vehicles involved in such rodeos, with the option to sell or destroy them before any trial takes place.
“I demand the greatest firmness against the scourge of urban rodeos, which ruin the lives of many French people,” Darmanin tweeted. The minister's call for action reflects a broader societal frustration over the increasing prevalence of these reckless displays, which not only endanger participants but also pose significant risks to the public.
The incident has sparked discussions about the need for stricter enforcement and preventive measures to curb the rise of urban rodeos. Local officials are contemplating additional safety protocols to protect both emergency responders and the community from such reckless behavior.
As the investigation continues, the emotional toll on the firefighter's colleagues and the community at large is palpable. A psychological support unit has been established within the SDIS 74 to assist those affected by the traumatic event.
Bruno Retailleau, the Minister of the Interior, is expected to visit the scene later today to assess the situation and meet with local officials. His visit underscores the government's commitment to addressing the issue of urban rodeos and providing support to the firefighters who risk their lives to protect the community.
In light of this incident, many are calling for a nationwide dialogue on the measures needed to combat urban rodeos effectively. The tragic injury of a dedicated firefighter has brought the issue to the forefront, highlighting the urgent need for action to ensure the safety of both emergency responders and the public.
As the community rallies around the injured firefighter and his family, there is hope that this incident will serve as a catalyst for change. The fight against urban rodeos is far from over, and the commitment to protecting those who protect us remains a priority.
