Limoges Town Hall Roof Collapses in Fire Amid France Protests

A fire during violent protests over rising living costs and deteriorating public services largely destroyed Limoges’s 1883 town hall, a landmark more than 140 years old. Local officials said the roof collapsed and about two-thirds of the exterior was lost, and condemned the blaze as a deliberate attack and a major loss to the city’s heritage. Unrest spread across France, with clashes, arson and looting reported in several cities, while police used tear gas and water cannon. Officials reported more than 1,200 arrests and 150 police officers injured, although many demonstrators joined peaceful marches. President Emmanuel Macron said those responsible would be prosecuted.