The family of a 26-year-old Black man killed in a racist shooting in France is demanding justice and stronger action against racism.
Pengo Bossio Wangi was killed on October 23 when a gunman opened fire in two towns west of Paris. Seven other people, including a child, were wounded.
French prosecutors say the suspect admitted targeting people he believed were Muslim, African or North African.
The victim’s family spoke publicly on Monday, November 2, calling for greater awareness of racism and discrimination in French society.
According to Africanews and AFP, the family hopes an upcoming national tribute will encourage meaningful action against racism.
Family demands justice after racist shooting in France
Pengo Bossio Wangi’s father, Bolema Bossio Wangi, addressed the tragedy during a press conference in Paris.
He called for the national tribute to become an opportunity for greater public awareness.
The grieving father also expressed fears about the safety and future of his children.
“As the father of Black children, I am afraid for their future,” he said through his daughter.
He also questioned whether his children would feel safe and accepted in French society.
The family wants the tragedy to prompt a broader discussion about racism and the protection of minority communities.
Meanwhile, their lawyer warned that racial discrimination can make people feel unwelcome in their own country.
What happened during the October 23 shooting?
The attack took place in Trappes and La Verrière, two towns west of Paris.
According to investigators, a 39-year-old suspect identified as Kevin T. opened fire from a moving vehicle.
He reportedly used a submachine gun while driving through the area.
One person was killed, while seven others sustained injuries.
The victims included a child, and most were of foreign origin.
Police arrested the suspect later that day.
The shooting shocked local communities and raised serious concerns about racially motivated violence.
Suspect reportedly admitted targeting minorities
French prosecutors have provided details about the suspected motive.
According to authorities, the suspect admitted selecting victims based on their perceived religious or ethnic backgrounds.
He allegedly targeted individuals who appeared to be Muslim, African or North African.
The statement strengthened investigators’ examination of the attack as a possible act of terrorism.
On October 29, France’s national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office announced formal charges against the suspect.
He was charged with murder and attempted murder in connection with a terrorist enterprise.
His lawyers later confirmed that he had been placed in pre-trial detention.
The suspect has not been convicted, and the judicial investigation remains ongoing.
Racist attack raises concerns about discrimination
The shooting has renewed debate about racism and discrimination in France.
The victim’s family believes the attack should encourage authorities and society to confront racial prejudice.
Zineb Alami, the family’s lawyer, warned that some French citizens are treated as outsiders because of their backgrounds.
She argued that discrimination can lead to people being portrayed as suspicious or unwelcome.
According to Alami, such attitudes contribute to the dehumanisation of minority communities.
Her comments reflect wider concerns about the treatment of people of African and North African origin in France.
However, the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain subject to the ongoing investigation.
France faces growing political tensions
The attack occurred during a politically sensitive period in France.
The country is preparing for presidential elections in approximately six months.
Far-right leader Marine Le Pen has been leading opinion polls, according to the reporting.
Meanwhile, public debate has intensified over immigration, national identity and discrimination.
The role of media coverage in shaping attitudes toward minority communities has also attracted attention.
The shooting has added urgency to discussions about racism and political rhetoric.
However, investigators have not established a direct connection between the suspect and any political party.
National tribute planned for shooting victims
French authorities are expected to hold a national tribute to the victims in the coming days.
For Pengo Bossio Wangi’s family, the event will be an important moment of remembrance.
However, they also hope it will lead to meaningful action against racism.
The family wants greater recognition of the dangers faced by minority communities.
Meanwhile, the criminal investigation will continue as prosecutors examine the circumstances of the shooting.
The suspect remains in pre-trial detention.
For the victim’s relatives, the priority remains justice for Pengo Bossio Wangi and accountability for the deadly attack.
The case has become a reminder of the consequences of racial hatred and the importance of protecting people from violence and discrimination.