Authorities in France arrested nine individuals as part of an investigation into the death of a young activist associated with the far right, following a university demonstration in Lyon last week.

Local prosecutors confirmed that one of those detained worked as a parliamentary assistant linked to the left-wing party La France Insoumise.

The victim, 23-year-old Quentin Deranque, suffered a severe brain injury after being attacked by a group of masked individuals during unrest that followed a protest against a lawmaker’s appearance at a university event. 

According to preliminary findings, the victim and two companions were pursued by several people before being assaulted. He lost consciousness after receiving blows to the head and died days later from his injuries.

Prosecutors stated that the nine suspects — seven men and two women — have connections to an antifascist collective known as Jeune Garde, an organization previously dissolved by the government over concerns related to violent rhetoric. 

One of the detainees served as an assistant to a member of parliament from La France Insoumise, who announced steps to terminate the employment contract.

The case prompted reactions across the political spectrum. Government representatives called for reflection on the tone of public debate, while La France Insoumise rejected institutional responsibility and criticized what it described as political exploitation of the incident.

The victim’s death also led to gatherings organized by groups aligned with the far right, some of which hold political positions close to Le Pen within the national landscape. Authorities increased security measures in Lyon amid concerns over further demonstrations.

The investigation remains ongoing. Prosecutors continue reviewing physical evidence, video footage, and witness testimony to establish individual responsibilities in a case that has intensified discussion about political violence in France.