A demonstrator was killed and around 47 others injured on Saturday in protests across France to condemn a fuel tax in a new challenge to President Emmanuel Macaron.
Many of the drivers see the tax as part of Macron's strategy to push France towards fossil fuels, noting that the increase is a symbol of a presidency seen as separate from the daily economic hardships of citizens.
The woman died when a woman drove her car quickly through the demonstrations, after being panicked in Punt de Bouvoizan, near Chambere, Louis Loygee, state governor or senior official, said in the eastern Savoie region.
According to several media reports, demonstrators began on the road to the woman's car, while trying to transfer her daughter to a hospital, while an investigation was launched into the incident.
Police said the 47 people were killed in separate incidents during demonstrations, some in critical condition. Officials said 24 people were detained and 17 others arrested for questioning.
Some 125,000 demonstrators took part in nearly 2,000 protests across France, the ministry said.
She also noted that security forces used tear gas in several places to open major roads, most notably the Mont Blanc tunnel, where 30 gas bombs were fired.
Police initially prevented demonstrators from advancing to the Champs-Elysées in Paris, where cars blocked the street and prevented them from advancing, but as many as 200 people were seen walking down the street, apparently on their way to the Elysee Palace.
The protesters, who wore the name "yellow jackets," vowed to target the toll booths, circular roads and the side road linking Paris' suburbs.
It is noteworthy that the law in France requires the motorists to keep yellow phosphorus jacket in their vehicles for wearing in the event of difficulties.
