Knifeman shot by police after trying to attack officers near the Arc de Triomphe

A man wielding a knife has been shot by police after trying to attack officers during a ceremony beneath the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

The attacker targeted an officer securing the ceremony for relighting the eternal flame honouring unknown soldiers at the Napoleon-era landmark, according to police.

Another officer shot the attacker, who was taken to hospital, the official said.

No bystanders or police officers were injured in the incident, it is understood.

The French counterterrorism prosecutor’s office said it is investigating the case and sent an investigator to the scene.

The Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’ most famous sites, and sits atop the busy Champs-Elysees avenue.

A large police presence was visible Friday evening near the monument, which was closed to the public.

The traffic circle surrounding the Arc de Triomphe remained open to vehicles.

The nearby metro station was closed for security reasons at the request of police, Paris public transport operator RATP said.

No other details were immediately available.

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