BREAKING: A shocking car ramming incident on the French holiday island of Saint Pierre d’Oléron has left at least 10 people injured, four of them in critical condition. The attack occurred earlier today, as a 35-year-old local man drove his vehicle into a crowd of pedestrians and cyclists, according to authorities.
The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, attempted to set his car ablaze after the collision. Police confirmed that he was stunned by officers at the scene. Eyewitnesses reported chaos as the vehicle sped down a road between two villages, injuring multiple individuals enjoying their holiday.
Emergency services rushed to the area, and the injured were transported to local hospitals. Christophe Sueur, the mayor of Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, stated that the suspect is notorious for his “numerous transgressions, notably due to his regular drug and alcohol use.” This crucial detail raises urgent questions about public safety in the area, especially during peak tourist season.
According to France’s Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, the attack is under an ongoing investigation for attempted murder. He commented, “This morning, a motorist struck several pedestrians and cyclists on his route in Saint Pierre d’Oléron and Dolus d’Oléron.”
Authorities discovered gas canisters inside the vehicle, intensifying concerns over the suspect’s intentions. The car only partially caught fire, and police quickly detained the man at the local police station.
Ile d’Oléron is known as a popular holiday destination for both locals and foreign tourists. It measures 19 miles long and 5 miles wide, making it the second largest island in France after Corsica. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and beyond, prompting officials to address safety measures in tourist hotspots.
As the investigation unfolds, residents and visitors are urged to remain vigilant. The Prime Minister has requested further updates and is monitoring the situation closely. The emotional impact of this horrific event will undoubtedly linger in the community as authorities work to ensure safety moving forward.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
