Paris attacks: 60 reported killed; hostage situation ongoing.
France was rocked by multiple, near simultaneous attacks on entertainment sites around Paris on Friday evening and French media said at least 60 people were killed and hostages were being held in a concert hall in the capital.
One of the explosions at the Stade de France outside Paris appears to be a suicide bombing, a Western intelligence source receiving direct intelligence from the scene. A dismembered body, consistent with the aftermath of an explosion from that type of device, was found at the scene, the source said. At least two explosions were heard near the Stade de France national stadium where a France-Germany friendly soccer match was being played, attended by President Francois Hollande. The match continued until the end but panic broke out in the crowd as rumors of the attack spread, and spectators were held in the stadium and assembled spontaneously on the pitch.
France has declared a national state of emergency and has closed its borders after at least 60 people were killed in multiple shootings in Paris.
At least 15 people have been killed near the Bataclan arts centre, where up to 60 people are reportedly being held hostage, French media say.
Three people were killed in an attack at the Stade de France, with some reports suggesting a suicide blast.
Paris authorities have asked people to stay indoors. Military personnel are being deployed across Paris.
The deadliest attack appears to have targeted the Bataclan concert hall. Other attacks hit Le Petit Cambodge restaurant in the 11th district where 10 people lying on the road, either dead or seriously injured. Another hit Le Carillon bar not too far away.
Three explosions were reported outside a bar near the Stade de France.
An eyewitness told Liberation he had heard more than 100 rounds being fired at a cafe in rue de Charonne.
There are reports of up to six gunmen involved.
The UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon has expressed his deep condolences following a series of attacks in Paris, as he called for “immediate release” of the hostages held in a theatre.
