Palace of Versailles evacuated after reports of security incident involving street vendors

The altercation reportedly escalated when one vendor took out a knife, reported Daily Mail. Authorities promptly warned visitors to vacate the area, stating: "An intervention is underway at the Château de Versailles. Security forces are on site. Avoid the area and follow the instructions of the authorities. Do not relay false information."

According to French outlet Le Figaro, a vendor was seen fleeing the scene with a knife, though this information has not been confirmed. France's GIGN elite police tactical unit was dispatched, with images on social media showing heavily armed units surrounding the historic site. At this time, there is no indication that the incident is terror-related.

The Palace of Versailles, situated approximately 12 miles west of Paris, is a historic former royal residence that attracts around 15 million visitors annually. Commissioned by King Louis XIV in the 1600s, the palace is also known for being the site where the Treaty of Versailles was signed in June 1919, officially ending World War I.

This incident occurs just ahead of the second round of French parliamentary elections on Sunday, July 7, and the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Paris.