Man Scales Notre-Dame de Paris, Parachutes Off in Daring Stunt

Paris, March 20, 2025 — In a startling breach of security, a 36-year-old man illegally scaled the iconic Notre-Dame de Paris and parachuted from its spire, exposing significant vulnerabilities at the historic site.

The incident occurred in the early hours, with the individual ascending the cathedral’s exterior under the cover of darkness and executing the unauthorized jump at dawn.​

Eyewitnesses reported seeing the man descending with a parachute, landing near the Seine River before quickly fleeing the scene. Local authorities were alerted immediately, and an investigation is underway to identify and apprehend the individual responsible.​

This event has raised pressing questions about the effectiveness of current security measures at Notre-Dame, especially considering its recent reopening in December 2024 after extensive restoration work following the devastating fire in 2019.

The cathedral, a symbol of French heritage and a major tourist attraction, had implemented enhanced security protocols during its restoration. However, this breach indicates potential lapses that need urgent attention.​

The Paris police department has acknowledged the severity of the incident and assured the public that steps are being taken to reinforce the cathedral’s security.

“We are reviewing surveillance footage and assessing our current security infrastructure to prevent such incidents in the future,” said a spokesperson for the department.​

Cultural preservationists and city officials have expressed concern over the potential risks such actions pose not only to the individuals involved but also to the structural integrity of the historic monument.

“Notre-Dame is not just a national treasure; it’s a world heritage site. Any unauthorized activity that could compromise its safety is unacceptable,” stated Marie Leclerc, a representative from the French Ministry of Culture.​

The public is urged to respect the sanctity and regulations of historic sites. Authorities are calling on anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.​

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in protecting cultural landmarks and underscores the need for continuous evaluation and enhancement of security measures to safeguard our shared heritage.

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