PARIS, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- A man stabbed to death a local official on Thursday in the city hall of Rodez, south France, before being arrested by police, media reported.
The daylight assault occurred near the city hall building at around 10:30 a.m. local time (0830 GMT) after a man armed with a knife attacked Pascal Filoe who was in charge of local police services, news channel BFMTV reported.
The victim succumbed to his injuries two hours later, it added.
Known by police for robbery and violence, the 39-year old attacker was arrested and put under custody. He had previously damaged a patio door at city hall.
The knifeman's motive remained identified but according to local media his act could be for vengeance after his unregistered attack dog was confiscated.
French Interior Minister Gerard Collomb condemned "despicable attack."
"My first thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Support for his colleagues and national police who immediately arrested the person," he said.
