French police have fatally shot a man who set fire to a synagogue in the northwestern city of Rouen. The incident occurred early Friday morning, according to a report by the BBC.

French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced the shooting, stating that police were alerted at 6:45 a.m. local time when smoke was seen rising from the synagogue. The attacker, identified as an Algerian national appealing an order to leave France, reportedly climbed into a large waste bin and threw a petrol bomb through a small window into the synagogue, igniting a fire.

Interior Minister Darmanin shared details of the incident on social media platform X, emphasizing the prompt response by police and emergency services. Firefighters quickly arrived at the scene and managed to control the blaze within the synagogue.

Reacting to the attack, Rouen Mayor Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol expressed his sorrow and solidarity with the Jewish community, stating that the entire city was "devastated and shocked" by the incident.

Fortunately, there were no casualties other than the assailant. The swift actions of the police and firefighters ensured that the fire did not spread further or cause additional harm.

The attack has sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns about security for places of worship in France. Authorities are continuing to investigate the motives behind the attack and ensure the safety of all religious communities in the city.