A promotional event orchestrated by French influencers descended into unprecedented violence and chaos on the streets of Paris, as a promised fried chicken giveaway attracted a mob of 3,000 people and sparked a full-scale confrontation with riot police.
The group behind the event, known as Fast Food Fights, had used social media to promote a free food distribution in the city's bustling Opéra district. The promise of complimentary meals, however, far exceeded expectations, drawing a massive and ultimately unmanageable crowd.
A Peaceful Promotion Turns Violent
What began as a gathering of eager participants quickly escalated. The sheer volume of people created a dangerous crush, with scenes of panic and pushing breaking out as it became clear there was not enough food for everyone. The situation deteriorated rapidly, transforming from a disorderly queue into an aggressive mob.
Authorities were forced to deploy significant numbers of riot police (CRS) to regain control of the area. Video footage and eyewitness accounts depict a volatile scene: projectiles were hurled at officers, rubbish bins were set alight, and violent skirmishes broke out across the neighbourhood, forcing local businesses to shutter their doors for safety.
Aftermath and Arrests
The French police moved swiftly to quell the disturbance. According to reports, six individuals were arrested in connection with the violence. Three officers sustained minor injuries during the intense clashes. The event organisers, Fast Food Fights, have since taken to social media to distance themselves from the violence, claiming their intention was purely to "give pleasure" to their followers and blaming troublemakers for hijacking the event.
This incident raises serious questions about the responsibility of influencers and the potential perils of organising large-scale public events without adequate security and logistical planning. Local officials have condemned the irresponsible nature of the promotion, which placed both the public and police officers at risk.
