On Sunday, October 19, thieves robbed the Louvre in Paris, reportedly targeting priceless jewels belonging to Napoleon and his empress.
Incident Overview
At the opening on Sunday, Oct. 19, thieves burst into the Louvre, discovered by Minister of Culture Rachida Dati. No injuries were reported, and the museum temporarily closed for the rest of the day.
Police and Minister Response
Rachida Dati confirmed on social media that she was at the scene with museum staff and police, while an investigation into the circumstances was underway.
Escape Route
According to Le Parisien, the robbers fled the building on a scooter toward the A6 highway.
Stolen Items
Le Parisien reports that the thieves seized items from the first‑floor Gallery of Apollo, including a necklace, a brooch, and a tiara that belonged to Napoleon and the empress. The notorious Regent diamond was not taken.
How the Break‑in Occurred
Investigators say the thieves entered during ongoing construction work, used an elevator, smashed a glass door and accessed the gallery directly.
