Five individuals sustained injuries following a collision with a crowd caused by a driver in France on Wednesday morning. The driver, a 35-year-old French national, tried to ignite the vehicle after the incident and reportedly exclaimed “Allahu Akbar” during his apprehension, as per French media. A 22-year-old woman and a 69-year-old cyclist, among those struck, are currently in critical condition based on local sources.
Authorities have ruled out terrorism as a motive for the event, attributing the driver’s actions to psychiatric problems, according to the public prosecutor for La Rochelle. The individual, known for past criminal activities tied to substance abuse, was not flagged in anti-terrorism databases.
Political figures have expressed their sentiments regarding the attack, with Philippe Ballard, Member of the National Assembly for Oise’s 2nd constituency, extending sympathies to the victims and acknowledging the swift action of law enforcement. Manuel Bompard, Member of the National Assembly for Bouches-du-Rhône’s 4th constituency, and Manon Aubry, Member of the European Parliament, also conveyed their support for the affected individuals and emergency responders.
The driver, identified as a local unemployed resident with a history of substance-related convictions, was taken into custody after shouting “Allahu Akbar” during the incident. Despite the use of the phrase commonly associated with terrorist acts, authorities have initiated a criminal investigation for attempted murder rather than terrorism charges.
The incident led to strong reactions from political groups, with the National Rally leader, Jordan Bardella, condemning the act of violence. The driver, who tested negative for alcohol following the attack, is a resident of a village near the scene. The injured individuals, ranging from 22 to 67 years old, hail from Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron and Dolus-d’Oléron.
The picturesque Ile d’Oléron, a popular tourist destination, witnessed the tragic event, prompting a coordinated response from emergency services. Laurent Nuñez, the Interior Minister, confirmed the arrest of the driver and ongoing investigations into the matter. The island, known for its natural beauty and recreational offerings, is now grappling with the aftermath of the distressing incident.
