Police Injury in Lyon Urban Rodeo and Evacuation of Illegal Rave in Barp Highlight Law Enforcement Challenges

On the night of January 16, 2026, an urban rodeo incident in Lyon resulted in injuries to a police officer while authorities continue to track three motorcyclists involved. The incident occurred near Place Bellecour around 11:45 PM when officers attempted to stop three motorcyclists performing stunts on a sidewalk. One rider deliberately collided with an officer, causing the latter to fall and sustain injuries to his knee, hand, and an open arcade, leading to hospital treatment and two days of temporary incapacity. Authorities seized two stolen motorcycles and are actively seeking the suspects. The prefect of Rhône, Fabienne Buccio, strongly condemned the criminal behavior during the event.

In Gironde, law enforcement executed an evacuation of an illegal rave party in Barp on January 17, where about 500 participants gathered despite a ban from January 16 to January 19 on festive events. The event took place on a fire prevention track, posing environmental and safety risks. The prefect of Gironde, Étienne Guyot, ordered the evacuation involving gendarmerie units, canine teams, and a CRS company, carried out between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM without injuries. Authorities seized sound equipment and a vehicle linked to the organizers and fined 150 vehicles for illegal circulation. Drug offenses were also recorded. The mayor of Barp filed a complaint following the operation. Prefect Guyot highlighted the dangers linked to such prohibited gatherings and reinforced the state's determination to uphold public safety and environmental protection.