Overview
- Steve Bansch, 38, was hit in the face Friday after the VE Day ceremony as attendees returned to the Waziers town hall.
- Police arrested the alleged attacker on the spot and held him in custody, and the town hall filed a complaint with prosecutors.
- The mayor was treated at a hospital for facial bruising and a shoulder injury, which he said followed a sudden slap that knocked off his glasses.
- Judicial authorities said the suspect was already known to the justice system, and early accounts link the outburst to a dispute over social housing.
- Despite the assault, Bansch led a medal presentation the next day, as officials condemned the attack and raised alarms about the safety of local leaders.