Students and activists gathered in demonstrations throughout Paris after an 18-year old student at one of France’s most-prestigious universities was viciously beaten and mortally wounded by right wing militants.  The attack has shocked the political establishment.

Clement Meric was surrounded by right-wing skinheads and beaten about the head with brass knuckles.  He was left on a street near Saint-Lazare station, bleeding heavily from the ears and nose.

Members of France’s ruling Socialist Party visited the scene of the crime, where hundreds later gathered for a vigil.  That’s when they got the news that Meric died in hospital.  He’s remembered as a promising student of The Institute of Political Studies.

Investigators are still determining if homophobia was the inspiration for the attack.  But the government recently legalized Gay Marriage, which has prompted conservative and nationalist political parties, as well as the Catholic Church, to call for opposition street demonstrations.  Although most polls indicate a majority approve of the new law, it’s been a point of contention on the political extremes.

Four members of a fringe right-wing skinhead group have been arrested.  Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault told parliament the government would step up plans to clamp down on far-right groups.