At least 10 individuals sustained injuries when a driver, allegedly shouting “Allahu Akbar,” crashed into a crowd in France. Following the collision, the driver tried to set the vehicle ablaze but was apprehended by authorities who swiftly arrived at the scene. Reports from local media indicate that two of the individuals struck by the car are currently in critical condition in an intensive care unit.
Despite initial concerns, authorities do not believe the incident to be a terrorist attack. The public prosecutor for the area stated that the driver has underlying “psychiatric issues.”
According to Arnaud Laraize, the public prosecutor in La Rochelle, the suspect grapples with mental health challenges and has a history of substance abuse. The picturesque Ile d’Oléron, the second largest island in France known for its natural beauty, has become a favorite destination for holidaymakers, especially those from the UK. Boasting pine forests, sandy beaches, and charming fishing ports, Oléron is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Minister of the Interior, Laurent Nuñez, released a statement on social media confirming that the driver struck pedestrians and cyclists in Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron and Dolus-d’Oléron. He noted that two individuals are in critical condition, while three others sustained injuries. The driver was swiftly apprehended by law enforcement, and an investigation is currently underway.
Specialist anti-terrorist judges were not involved in the case, as Laraize, the public prosecutor in Le Rochelle, emphasized that the individual is primarily known for drug and alcohol-related offenses. A criminal investigation for “attempted murder” has been initiated.
Witnesses reported the distressing incident shortly after 8:45 am, mentioning multiple casualties and hearing the phrase “Allahu Akbar.” The driver, a local resident in his thirties, was arrested at the location. The most severely injured victims were airlifted to the University Hospital of Poitiers.
