French army chief quits after soldier shoots 17 people

French army chief quits after soldier shoots 17 people
Posted 3 hours 37 minutes ago

The French army chief of staff has resigned two days after a soldier injured 17 people when he mistakenly opened fire with live ammunition during a display at an army base, the presidency said.

President Nicolas Sarkozy vowed severe punishment following the shooting, which took place as hundreds of people watched a mock hostage rescue operation near the south-western city of Carcassonne.

"The president of the republic, head of the armed forces, has accepted the offer of resignation by General Bruno Cuche, chief of staff of the army," Mr Sarkozy's office said in a statement.

"This powerful gesture follows the tragedy that occurred last Sunday in Carcassonne," it said.

Fifteen bystanders including five children were shot during the display as were two soldiers. A three-year-old boy was in serious condition after taking bullets in the heart and in the arm.

The 28-year-old sergeant who fired the shots from his assault rifle was being held in custody and was expected to be charged with causing unintentional injury.

The sergeant has been described as an experienced soldier with no history of psychological problems.
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http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/07/01/2291444.htm?section=justin