A 35-year-old man intentionally drove his vehicle into pedestrians and cyclists on Île d’Oléron, injuring 10 people, including four who are in critical condition.
The attack took place around 8:45 a.m. between Dolus-d’Oléron and Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron. Witnesses reported the driver shouting “Allahu Akbar” before accelerating into the crowd.
“He was neutralized using an electric pulse weapon,” confirmed the prosecutor.
The suspect is known to authorities for minor thefts but was not on the high-risk individuals watchlist known as the ‘S’ file. An investigation into attempted murder with terrorist intent has been launched.
This deliberate vehicle attack has resulted in serious injuries and a swift police response, with terrorism suspected as a motive.