Senator Annick Pétrus assaulted and bound on Saint‑Martin – investigations ongoing

Saint‑Martin – 09.07.2026: The senator of Saint‑Martin, Annick Pétrus (Les Républicains), was the victim of an armed assault at her residence during the night from Tuesday to Wednesday. According to the politician, one or more perpetrators entered her private apartment, threatened her with a weapon, bound her and gagged her. The prefecture confirmed the incident to news agencies. Parliamentary channels indicated that Pétrus received medical attention; no life-threatening injuries were reported.

The scene is located on the northern Caribbean island of Saint‑Martin; authorities did not provide more specific location details due to the ongoing investigation. According to initial findings, it appears to have been a robbery in which the perpetrators are said to have taken valuables. Whether the crime was targeted at the elected representative or was an opportunistic act remains unclear. Investigators also made no immediate statements about the number of people involved or possible escape routes.

The gendarmerie opened an investigation into armed robbery, aggravated deprivation of liberty and other possible offenses. Forensic evidence collection and witness interviews began on Wednesday. Authorities are asking for restraint in speculation so as not to compromise the analysis of traces and leads. No arrests had been confirmed by early afternoon.

According to those close to her, Pétrus thanked the emergency services and the people who helped her after the attack, and said she will continue her political work. Expressions of solidarity came from the local political spectrum. Several officeholders warned that those in positions of responsibility in public life may increasingly become targets of intimidation and violence, and called for a review of individual protection measures.

The incident again draws attention to the security situation in the French overseas territory. Saint‑Martin has in recent years repeatedly reported a tense crime situation compared with mainland France. In such cases the prefecture regularly points to increased patrols, targeted operations and prevention in cooperation with the Collectivité. After the attack, officials announced they would keep the gendarmerie’s presence visible and update the situation assessment. No concrete new measures were communicated initially.

Investigations are ongoing. The prefecture and the gendarmerie announced they will publish current information as soon as secured findings are available. Citizens who made suspicious observations during the night are asked to contact the relevant offices on Saint‑Martin.