Driver in custody after intentionally striking pedestrians in France, interior minister says
In a shocking incident on an island in southwestern France, a driver has been apprehended after allegedly intentionally striking pedestrians and cyclists in multiple locations. The interior minister, Laurent Nunez, revealed that five individuals were hit by the vehicle, with two in critical condition and three others sustaining moderate injuries.
Among the victims was a 22-year-old woman who was jogging at the time of the attack, according to Nunez. The mayor of Saint-Pierre d’Oleron, Christophe Sueur, stated that the suspect deliberately targeted individuals in bicycle lanes with his car.
Authorities managed to subdue the suspect by using a taser, as Nunez disclosed. The perpetrator was known to law enforcement and had previous convictions for minor offenses, although he was not on the radar of French intelligence agencies and was not associated with radicalization.
The series of strikes took place in the villages of Saint Pierre and Dolus, approximately 4 miles apart on the island of Oleron, which is a popular tourist destination off the Atlantic coast. Nunez mentioned that the attack spanned about 35 minutes in total.
Following the assault, the suspect allegedly attempted to set his vehicle on fire before being apprehended by police. Videos and images circulated by French media and international news outlets depicted investigators examining a burnt-out car, along with what appeared to be a propane or gas canister.
Nunez confirmed that two individuals were in serious condition after being struck by the vehicle, with several others sustaining injuries. Sueur explained in a televised interview that the victims ranged from 22 to 69 years old, with some being airlifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities have not disclosed details about the suspect or a potential motive for the attack. While the French anti-terrorism prosecutor is monitoring the situation, they have not yet initiated formal involvement, as reported by local media.
