In an alarming incident on the French holiday island of Saint Pierre d´Oléron, a man reportedly tried to set his car on fire after crashing into a group of pedestrians and cyclists. The attack left at least 10 people injured, with two in critical condition.
Law enforcement swiftly apprehended the 35-year-old suspect, who allegedly shouted “Allahu Akbar” upon arrest. The car struck several individuals on a road between two villages on the island before police intervened moments later, using a Taser to subdue the resistant suspect.
Following the shocking event, authorities found the suspect attempting to ignite his vehicle, which contained gas canisters. The arrested man, residing just four kilometers from the attack site, was known to local officials for past misconduct related to substance abuse.
The Mayor of Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, Christophe Sueur, highlighted the suspect’s troubled history, mentioning his involvement in drug and alcohol-related issues. A probe into the incident has been initiated as an attempted murder case.
French Minister of the Interior, Laurent Nuñez, disclosed initial findings of the investigation, confirming injuries to pedestrians and cyclists in the area. While the suspect’s drug and alcohol use and alleged psychiatric problems have been acknowledged, the incident is not being treated as a terrorism-related act.
Witnesses reported hearing the suspect utter “Allahu Akbar,” although authorities are not considering the incident a terror attack. An eyewitness described the chaos as the car struck pedestrians, emphasizing the distressing impact on the community in Saint Pierre d’Oléron.
Ile d’Oléron, a popular destination for UK tourists, is the second largest island in France, attracting holidaymakers with its natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere.