Panic in Paris: Screaming Crowds Run Away From Memorial

It was not clear what set it off, but police said no one was hurt.

— -- Panic broke out at several sites around Paris tonight, including the memorial at the Republique Plaza.

People began running and screaming from the memorial, where they had gathered to leave flowers and candles in honor of the Paris attack victims.

Thousands of people trampled on the carefully laid memorials, snuffing candles and sprinting for their lives.

A French law enforcement official said the panic was apparently caused by fireworks, according to the Associated Press.

Police took up positions with their guns at the ready, ordering onlookers away, but after a short time they eased their stances and slowly people started returning.

Police said no shots were fired and no injuries were reported at the plaza.

France is on edge today as the French National Police launch an international manhunt for a "dangerous" suspect wanted for involvement in the attacks.