Crystal Dike
Terror struck the tranquil holiday island of Île d’Oléron on Wednesday morning when a local man deliberately rammed his car into pedestrians and cyclists, leaving at least ten people injured, including four in critical condition, according to French authorities.
The shocking attack unfolded along several roads on the holiday island of Île d’Oléron, off France’s west coast. The suspect, a man in his mid-30s and resident of the island, drove between the villages of Dolus d’Oléron and Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, hitting multiple people — among them a young girl — said Dolus d’Oléron Mayor Thibault Brechkoff.
After mowing down pedestrians, the driver abandoned and set fire to his car before fleeing on foot. Police later apprehended him using a stun gun. Witnesses said the man shouted “Allahu Akbar” (“God is greatest”) during his arrest, heightening fears among residents and tourists on the popular holiday island.
La Rochelle public prosecutor Arnaud Laraize confirmed that the suspect, who was already known to police, is being held in Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron on suspicion of attempted murder. However, France’s anti-terrorism prosecutors have not yet taken over the case.
Authorities said a gas canister was discovered in the burnt-out vehicle. The incident occurred around 08:45 local time (07:45 GMT) and prompted a swift response from emergency services.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced that an investigation has been opened and that he was traveling to the holiday island of Île d’Oléron to assess the situation firsthand.
Connected to mainland France by a bridge, Île d’Oléron is the country’s second-largest island after Corsica, known for its peaceful beaches and family resorts. Wednesday’s attack has left the close-knit community in shock, shattering the calm of what is usually a serene holiday destination.
As authorities continue their investigation, residents of Île d’Oléron say the holiday island will take time to recover from the fear and devastation caused by the rampage.