Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

WWI Shell Discovered in Man's Rectum Sparks Hospital Evacuation

2/3/2026

23 2

Summary

Story summary

A live World War One artillery shell was found lodged in a 24-year-old man's rectum at Rangueil Hospital in Toulouse, triggering evacuation.
The shell measured 16 cm by 4 cm and was discovered during surgery after the patient arrived in severe discomfort.
Bomb disposal experts declared the area safe after evacuating the hospital and establishing a perimeter.
This incident follows a 2025 study noting US rectal foreign-body visits.

1 of 1

Story summary

A live World War One artillery shell was found lodged in a 24-year-old man's rectum at Rangueil Hospital in Toulouse, triggering evacuation.
The shell measured 16 cm by 4 cm and was discovered during surgery after the patient arrived in severe discomfort.
Bomb disposal experts declared the area safe after evacuating the hospital and establishing a perimeter.
This incident follows a 2025 study noting US rectal foreign-body visits.