A shocking incident unfolded on the serene French island of Oléron when a 35-year-old driver deliberately ploughed his vehicle into a crowd of pedestrians and cyclists. Witnesses described the man shouting "Allahu Akbar" as he sped through the streets around 8:45 a.m., targeting everyone in his path. The horrifying event left at least ten people injured, prompting an immediate police response and widespread panic among residents and tourists.

Authorities reported that after the crash, the driver attempted to ignite his vehicle, which was found loaded with several gas cylinders. Police officers swiftly intervened, using a taser to subdue and arrest him before further harm could occur. The suspect's reckless actions caused chaos and raised fears of a possible terror-related motive, though officials have urged the public to await the results of ongoing investigations.

La Rochelle public prosecutor Arnaud Laraize announced that an investigation for attempted murder has been launched. However, the anti-terrorism prosecutor's office has not taken over the case at this stage, indicating that no clear link to terrorism has yet been established. The suspect's background, officials say, includes a history of drug and alcohol abuse, as confirmed by Christophe Sueur, the mayor of Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron.

Among the injured is a parliamentary assistant to National Rally MP Pascal Markowsky, who remains in critical condition. The victims, aged between 22 and 67, were immediately transported to the University Hospital of Poitiers for urgent medical attention. A psychological support unit has also been set up to assist traumatized witnesses and families affected by the tragedy.

The suspect, a resident of La Cotiniere — a small fishing community on the island — was not on France's list of individuals monitored for potential radicalization, according to Le Figaro. This revelation has raised questions about the driver's mental state and possible personal motives behind the violent act.

As investigators continue to piece together the motive, the peaceful island community remains in shock, grappling with the sudden burst of violence that shattered what was once an ordinary morning on Oléron.

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