Channel 4 News/FacebookFollowing the terrorist attacks in Paris, that have so far claimed the lives of 132 civilians, the city is understandably on edge, but Channel 4’s Matt Frei has drawn praise for his composure during a scare in the Place de la Republique.
During a live report in which Frei is speaking of a mass gathering in the square to pay respect to victims, and demonstrate solidarity against terror, a horde of citizens start to flee in panic.
The nervous citizens are pointed out to Frei by a cameraman, and the journalist has a split second where he assesses the situation before continuing with his report.
Here is the report in full.
The whole crew deserves credit for not giving into the hysteria that terrorists will no doubt have hoped to create.
Absolute must watch on @channel4 plus 1 – tonight's @channel4news with incredible reporting from @mattfrei @fedescher @hirdstephen in Paris
— Jon Laurence (@jonlaurence) November 15, 2015
Gripping #c4news just now, esp @mattfrei who was amazing. Glad was false alarm and everyone ok. Brave reporting #ParisAttacks
— Scott Solder (@Scott_Solder) November 15, 2015
By the way, @mattfrei's native tongue is German. Reporting live in English and interviewing in French. Just saying. #c4news.
— Rory Bremner (@rorybremner) November 15, 2015
Matt Frei and his crew reporting live during the panic in the square there. So calm despite all going on. First class.
— Ciaran (@CiaranMcGilp) November 15, 2015
Below is a clip from the BBC showing men and women who gathered in the Place de la Republique scattering after allegedly hearing a gunshot.
Panicked crowds flee Place de la Republique in Paris but all clear now given https://t.co/xBWojGWY5J #ParisAttacks https://t.co/hvhew8yMBV
— BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) November 15, 2015
Thankfully the scene was caused by a false alarm, and the strength of human spirit mentioned in Frei’s report can emerge once more.
