LONDON – Authorities in Derby, England have taken a 36-year-old man into custody following a vehicle attack that left seven pedestrians injured Saturday evening, with counter-terrorism specialists now supporting the investigation.
The collision happened around 9:30 p.m. local time on Friar Gate, a typically crowded downtown thoroughfare. Emergency responders treated seven victims at the scene for severe injuries before transporting them to area hospitals. Officials report none of the injuries are considered life-threatening.
Law enforcement officers apprehended the suspect and his black Suzuki Swift within seven minutes of the incident. The driver, an Indian national who has resided in Britain for several years, faces multiple charges including attempted murder, dangerous driving, and intentionally causing grievous bodily harm.
Derbyshire Constabulary officials stated they are “keeping an open mind” regarding the suspect’s motivations. While counter-terrorism experts have joined the probe, investigators are not currently classifying the incident as a terrorist act.
Police emphasized that involving counter-terrorism specialists represents “common practice for an incident of this nature.”
“Although we know this will be alarming, we would like to reassure people that we do not believe there is an ongoing risk to the public,” authorities announced, describing the incident as isolated with no continuing public threat.
