Key Highlights
- An automobilist deliberately ran over several people on the island of Oléron in France.
- Ten people were injured, with four requiring urgent care.
- The driver shouted “Allah Akbar” during his arrest, but the motive is not yet confirmed.
- No terrorism-related investigation has been opened by the antiterrorism prosecutor’s office at this stage.
- The man tried to set fire to his vehicle after the incident and was placed in custody.
Incident Overview: A Deliberate Car Attack on Oléron Island, France
A chilling incident unfolded early Wednesday morning, November 5, 2025, when a man deliberately ran over several pedestrians and cyclists on the island of Oléron in Charente-Maritime, France. The attack took place between two villages—Dolus-d’Oléron and Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron—and left ten people injured, four of whom required urgent medical attention.
According to the local prosecutor’s office, Arnaud Laraize, the driver shouted “Allah Akbar” during his arrest. However, at this stage, the motive behind the attack remains unclear, and no terrorism-related investigation has been initiated by the antiterrorism prosecutor’s office of France.
The Attack: A Grim Picture
At approximately 8:45 AM on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, a vehicle was involved in a series of deliberate collisions. The vehicle struck ten people—both pedestrians and cyclists—causing injuries ranging from minor to severe. According to the gendarmerie, five individuals were hospitalized, three of whom required intensive care.
Some victims were airlifted to the Poitiers University Hospital (CHU), indicating the severity of their injuries.
The final tally of injuries may still evolve as more details come to light. A psychological support cell was established at Château d’Oléron in response to this traumatic event.
Investigations and Suspect Details
The driver, a 35-year-old French man known for his numerous behavioral issues, including substance abuse (both drugs and alcohol), attempted to set fire to his vehicle following the incident. His car, which was partially damaged by the blaze, was found to contain several gas cylinders.
He resides in a mobile home in La Cotinière, a village on the western coast of Oléron Island. Christophe Sueur, mayor of Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, described him as someone with a history of “numerous derangements.” Despite his known issues, he is not registered in any database related to radicalization.
However, sources indicate that the suspect claims to have self-radicalized online. Investigators are also exploring the possibility of mental health issues contributing to this disturbing act.
Official Response and Further Developments
A tentative investigation has been launched by the prosecutor’s office in La Rochelle for “attempted murder.” The probe is being handled by the Poitiers section of research, with support from the investigative units in Rochefort and La Rochelle.
Laurent Nuñez, France’s Minister of Interior, stated that he would visit the scene at the request of Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne. He is expected to arrive around 14:00 PM on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, to oversee the investigation and provide guidance.
The incident has shaken the community, with local authorities emphasizing their commitment to safety and support for those affected by this tragic event.
