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Oléron Car Ramming Leaves Five Injured as Police Probe Possible Radicalization

A preliminary psychiatric assessment pointed to signs of radicalization, guiding inquiries into the suspect's motive.

Overview

  • Interior Minister Laurent Nunez says five people were injured, with two still in critical condition though no longer considered in immediate danger.
  • The French suspect was detained without resistance after attempting to set his car on fire, and several gas canisters found in the vehicle did not detonate.
  • Pedestrians and a cyclist were struck on the road between Dolus-d’Oléron and Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron before the car stopped near a bakery.
  • Local officials describe the 35-year-old as known for alcohol and drug problems and prior offenses such as theft and drunk driving, with witnesses reporting religious slogans.
  • The national antiterrorism prosecutor’s office has not opened a terrorism case but is monitoring the investigation, which is pursuing counts tied to intentional injury and attempted murder.