A peaceful afternoon on the picturesque French island of Oléron turned to chaos when a vehicle ploughed into a crowd of pedestrians, leaving six people injured in what authorities are calling a "serious traffic accident."
The terrifying incident occurred around 4:15 PM local time on Sunday in the Saint-Trojan-les-Bains area, a popular tourist destination known for its tranquil beaches and pine forests.
Victims Include Children in Summer Holiday Horror
Among the six injured were two children, though fortunately none of the victims sustained life-threatening injuries. Emergency services rushed to the scene immediately, with multiple ambulances and medical teams deployed to assist the wounded.
Local prosecutor Yvon Tallec confirmed the incident involved a single vehicle colliding with pedestrians. "The driver, a man in his thirties, was taken into custody and is undergoing medical evaluation," officials stated.
Eyewitnesses Describe Chaotic Scene
Witnesses reported scenes of panic and confusion as the vehicle struck multiple people. "People were screaming, running in all directions," one local shopkeeper recounted. "It happened so quickly - one moment everything was normal, the next there was chaos."
The popular holiday island, located off France's western coast near La Rochelle, is typically packed with tourists during summer months, raising questions about pedestrian safety in crowded areas.
Investigation Underway as Questions Mount
Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the accident. While initial reports suggest it may have been an accident rather than a deliberate act, prosecutors are examining all possibilities.
"We are looking at every angle, including driver error, mechanical failure, and medical emergency," a police spokesperson commented.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit island community, known for its laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly environment. Local officials have promised a thorough review of safety measures in pedestrian zones.
