French police thwarted a suspected terrorist bomb attack outside a Bank of America building in Paris early Saturday morning, arresting one man before he could detonate the device.

The incident unfolded around 3:25 a.m. local time on Rue la Boétie in the city's upscale 8th arrondissement, a short distance from the Champs-Élysées. Officers on patrol spotted two men carrying a shopping bag near the bank's entrance. As police approached, one suspect attempted to light the device with a lighter, but officers intervened swiftly, detaining him on the spot while the second man fled.

The improvised explosive device consisted of a 5-liter plastic container filled with an unidentified liquid taped to approximately 650 grams of explosive powder, resembling a large firework in some descriptions. The assembly was secured by authorities and sent to the Paris Police Prefecture's Central Laboratory for forensic analysis. No detonation occurred, and there were no injuries or damage reported.

The National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor's Office, known as PNAT, immediately opened an investigation into charges including attempted destruction by fire or dangerous means in connection with terrorism, manufacturing and possession of an incendiary or explosive device, and participation in a terrorist criminal association. The probe is being led by the Paris Judicial Police and France's domestic intelligence agency, DGSI, with a manhunt underway for the escaped accomplice.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez praised the rapid response team from the Paris police prefecture. In a statement on X, he said, "Well done to the rapid response team from the (Paris) police authority, whose actions thwarted a violent terrorist attack in Paris last night." He added, "Vigilance remains at a very high level. I commend all the security and intelligence forces fully mobilized under my authority in the current international context."

The detained suspect, whose identity has not been released, reportedly told investigators he was recruited via Snapchat and paid about 600 euros ($690) by a third party who drove him to the location. Authorities have not disclosed a motive or linked the plot to any specific group, though the charges suggest potential involvement in a broader network.

A Bank of America spokesperson confirmed the company is aware of the incident and cooperating with authorities, but provided no further details. The area was secured following the arrest, with police and private security vehicles visible outside the building.

This event comes amid heightened security in France due to ongoing global tensions. Just days earlier, a pro-Iran group issued threats against a Bank of America branch in France, though no direct connection has been established. Paris police have maintained elevated vigilance, reflecting concerns over isolated or coordinated attacks targeting symbolic financial institutions.