French Journalist Reported Killed By Sniper In Syria

Syrian opposition activists say a Belgian-born French journalist has died in the northern city of Aleppo while covering fighting between government troops and rebels.

Antiregime activists in Aleppo reported on January 18 that Yves Debay was killed the previous day by a Syrian Army sniper.

That information could not be independently confirmed.

Activists posted photographs of Debay's body and his press card online, as well as an amateur video showing the corpse.

There was no immediate comment from the Syrian government.

Debay founded “Assaut” magazine, a French publication specializing on defense issues.

According to the Paris-based Reporters Without Borders, at least 17 professional journalists have died while reporting on Syria's conflict.

Based on reporting by AFP and dpa