Nationwide protests in France escalate into riots and looting

Protests across France turned violent on Saturday, October 18, after weeks of demonstrations over rising costs and poor public services. Around 500,000 people had joined peaceful marches, but some groups began attacking buildings and shops. Nearly 1,800 people were arrested. About 1,500 shops were damaged or looted, including luxury stores in Paris. Rioters set fire to a 19th-century city hall in Limoges, destroying most of the building. City halls in Lille and Marseille were also targeted. Hundreds of police officers were hurt, and one demonstrator died. The protests were started by students who are angry at President Macron's handling of the economy. Officials have described Saturday as one of France's worst days of civil unrest in many years.