2 armed men storm church in France; slit priest's throat; take hostages!

Police closed the road leading to the church Photo crediit - APTN

Two armed men took hostages today at a church near Rouen in Northern France. They are dead right now, one hostage was unfortunately killed, police and media have said.

The hostage-takers were reported to have been holding between four and six people at the church in Saint-Etienne-du-Rouvray. A priest and two nuns, as well as churchgoers, were among those held, local media said.

France 3 television said a number of shots had been heard.


A priest was killed during the hostage situation. The attackers slit his throat, local media reported citing police sources.

Police and the emergency services are at the scene. The area has been cordoned off and police have been telling people to stay away.

French TV said Interior Minister, Bernard Cazeneuve, was on his way to the town to be briefed by police.