**Saint-Émilion, France –** Residents of the small, isolated village of Saint-Émilion are reeling after a coordinated and shockingly violent attack by a large group of humanoid creatures, described as “genetically-altered monstrosities,” emerged from the dense surrounding forests early this morning. Initial reports indicate a sustained assault on the village, resulting in significant property damage and, tragically, confirmed casualties.

The attack began approximately 03:17 local time, with villagers reporting a cacophony of guttural roars and the sounds of breaking wood and shattering glass. Witnesses described the creatures as standing approximately seven feet tall, possessing heightened strength and aggression. They moved with unnerving speed and coordinated tactics, overwhelming the village’s meager defenses. Local law enforcement, alerted by panicked calls, arrived within an hour but were quickly outmatched.

“It wasn’t like anything I’ve ever seen,” stated Marie Dubois, a local baker who witnessed the initial onslaught. “They just… appeared. Like they’d materialized from the trees. They were targeting the church, smashing the doors. It was pure chaos.”

The creatures’ objectives appear to have been focused on a central, heavily fortified structure within the village – a former military outpost now used as a historical archive. While the archive’s contents remain secure, the surrounding buildings have suffered extensive damage. Military reinforcements have been dispatched to the area, but their deployment is hampered by the dense forest terrain and the creatures’ apparent ability to blend seamlessly with the environment.

Military analysts are currently speculating about the origin of these beings, with early theories pointing to a clandestine, experimental program. “The level of genetic modification is… unprecedented,” stated Major Pierre Leclerc, speaking to reporters at the scene. “They’re not simply animals; they possess a disturbing level of intelligence and strategic thinking. This suggests a deliberate, and potentially disastrous, level of manipulation.”

Adding to the mystery, a single, high-tech device – resembling a small, metallic sphere – was recovered near the site of the initial attack. Its purpose and origin are currently unknown. The situation remains volatile, and authorities are urging residents of surrounding areas to remain vigilant and report any unusual activity. Further updates will be provided as they become available.