In a shocking incident that has sent ripples of fear through the tranquil island community of Île d’Oléron, a man drove a vehicle into a crowd of pedestrians on Thursday morning, injuring 10 people, four of whom are in critical condition. Witnesses reported the suspect shouting “Allahu Akbar” during the attack, raising immediate concerns about a possible terrorist motive. However, French authorities have cautioned against speculation, noting that investigators are exploring all angles, including potential mental health issues.

The attack unfolded around 9:15 AM local time on the bustling Quai des Baleiniers in Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, the island’s main town known for its picturesque harbor and vibrant market scene. According to initial reports from the scene, the suspect, identified only as a 42-year-old local resident, plowed his white Renault Clio through a group of shoppers and tourists enjoying the mild autumn day. The vehicle veered onto the sidewalk, striking victims before coming to a halt after colliding with a street lamp.

Emergency services responded swiftly, airlifting the four most severely injured – including two children – to hospitals in La Rochelle and Poitiers. The remaining six victims suffered fractures, lacerations, and concussions and are receiving treatment at a local clinic. Medical officials described the scene as “chaotic but contained,” crediting quick action by bystanders who subdued the driver until police arrived.

The suspect was arrested at the scene without further incident and is being held for questioning at a nearby gendarmerie station. Sources close to the investigation, citing Le Parisien, revealed that authorities are probing whether the man has a history of mental health struggles, including prior episodes of erratic behavior documented in local records. “We are not ruling out terrorism at this stage, but we must avoid premature conclusions,” a spokesperson for the Île d’Oléron prosecutor’s office stated in a brief press release. Forensic teams are examining the vehicle for any signs of premeditation, such as radical materials or planning documents.

Eyewitness accounts painted a harrowing picture. Marie Dupont, a 55-year-old shopkeeper whose café overlooks the quay, told NRIGlobe: “It was like a nightmare. One moment, people were laughing and buying fresh oysters; the next, screams everywhere. He was yelling something in Arabic – ‘Allahu Akbar,’ I think – and his eyes were wild. Thank God no one was killed.” Another witness, British tourist James Hargrove, described helping to pull a young girl from under the car’s wheel: “She was just eight, holding her mother’s hand. It’s devastating. This place is supposed to be a haven.”

Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron Mayor Étienne Moreau expressed profound shock in a midday address to residents. “Our hearts are broken for the victims and their families. This island, a symbol of peace and simple joys, has been scarred today. We stand united against violence in all its forms,” Moreau said, his voice trembling. He announced the cancellation of evening market activities and the deployment of additional counseling services for the community. French President Emmanuel Macron, briefed on the incident, issued a statement via X (formerly Twitter): “My deepest sympathies to the people of Oléron. The full force of the Republic will ensure justice and support for those affected. Vive la France.”

This event comes amid heightened security alerts across Europe, following a series of vehicular attacks linked to Islamist extremism in recent years, including the 2016 Bastille Day tragedy in Nice that claimed 86 lives. However, officials emphasized that Île d’Oléron – a car-free paradise popular with families for its beaches and cycling paths – has no prior history of such violence. Local police had not flagged the suspect as a threat, though neighbors described him as “reclusive” and occasionally “disturbed.”

As the investigation unfolds, the focus shifts to the victims’ recovery and the island’s resilience. A prayer vigil is planned for 6 PM at the Église Notre-Dame, where community leaders from all faiths will gather. NRIGlobe will provide updates as more details emerge.

NRIGlobe is committed to delivering accurate, timely global news. This story is developing; corrections will be issued if new information warrants.

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