A driver intentionally rammed several pedestrians and cyclists on the French island of Oléron on Wednesday. The incident, which occurred off the Atlantic coast, led to the injury of ten individuals, with at least two in critical condition. Police quickly apprehended the driver at the scene.
Key Takeaways
- Ten people were injured in the attack on Oléron Island.
- Two victims are in critical condition and required helicopter evacuation.
- The driver, a French national in his 30s, was known to local police for prior offenses.
- Authorities are investigating the motive, with the national anti-terror prosecutor's office monitoring the case.
Incident Unfolds on Oléron Island
The attack took place on Wednesday, April 8, in the quiet community of Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron. A motorist drove into a group of people, causing significant injuries. Local authorities responded swiftly to the emergency.
According to Christophe Sueur, the mayor of Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, police apprehended the driver "with difficulty." The individual was taken into custody shortly after the incident.
Incident Details
- Location: Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, Oléron Island, France
- Date: Wednesday, April 8
- Injuries: 10 people, 2 critically
- Driver Status: Apprehended and in custody
Victims and Emergency Response
Ten passersby sustained injuries in the incident. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed that at least two people are in critical condition. Emergency services transported some of the critically injured victims by helicopter to Poitiers, a city on mainland France, for specialized medical care.
Mayor Sueur also confirmed that no children were among those injured in the attack.
"It all happened very quickly," Mayor Christophe Sueur told reporters, describing the rapid sequence of events.
Aftermath and Investigation
Following the collision, the driver exited his vehicle and reportedly attempted to set it on fire. Local prosecutors stated that the driver shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the attack. However, authorities have not yet determined a clear motive for the incident.
France’s Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced that an investigation is underway. The national anti-terror prosecutor’s office is also monitoring the case, indicating the serious nature of the ongoing inquiry.
Background on Oléron Island
Oléron is a popular tourist island located off the Atlantic coast of France. Known for its beaches and oyster farming, it is generally a peaceful community. Incidents of this nature are rare, making the event particularly shocking for residents and visitors.
Driver's Profile and Prior Record
The driver is a French national of Caucasian ethnicity, reportedly in his 30s. He resided on Oléron Island and began his car journey from there on Wednesday. Mayor Sueur stated that the driver is known to local police for common law offenses.
These past offenses include theft and driving under the influence of alcohol. Crucially, the driver was not known to French intelligence services, suggesting he was not on any watch lists related to extremist activities before this incident.
His vehicle was found on the roadside after the attack, with its front section severely damaged, as recalled by Mayor Sueur. The investigation will now focus on establishing the exact sequence of events and the driver's motivations.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
With the driver in custody, legal proceedings are advancing. Investigators will examine all evidence, including statements from witnesses and the driver himself, to understand the full scope of the attack. The involvement of the national anti-terror prosecutor’s office highlights the potential for a broader investigation into the motive behind the assault.
The community on Oléron Island remains shaken by the events. Support services are likely being made available to those affected by the incident and their families.
