A 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a car struck several pedestrians on Friar Gate, one of Derby's busiest streets, on Saturday evening. Derbyshire police confirmed that seven people sustained injuries described as 'serious but not life-threatening'. The force stated that, contrary to online speculation, there were no fatalities.
Chief Superintendent Emma Aldred said officers apprehended the suspect in Station Approach, on the other side of the city centre, just seven minutes after the incident at approximately 9.30pm. 'This swift action would not have been possible without eyewitnesses who contacted us about the vehicle's whereabouts,' she added. The driver of a black Suzuki Swift was also arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury through dangerous driving, inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, and dangerous driving. He is a Derby man originally from India who has lived in the UK for several years.
Police are working alongside counter-terrorism officers but have not yet designated the incident as a terror attack, keeping an open mind about motives. Victims were treated at the scene by ambulance crews before being taken to Royal Derby Hospital and Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham. The police cordon was lifted on Sunday afternoon, but businesses on Friar Gate, including bars and restaurants, remained closed.
Witnesses described a scene of chaos and fear. One local resident, Mark Lucas, said he saw people on the floor who appeared seriously hurt. Another witness told the Derby Telegraph: 'It was such a frightening experience. We came around the corner and there was just people everywhere.' Medical student Mike McCluskey, who lives nearby, expressed concern that the incident could raise tensions, noting that 'events like this' are sometimes used to stir division.
Derby North MP Catherine Atkinson said she was 'deeply shocked' by the serious incident, while Derby South MP Baggy Shanker offered thoughts to all affected. Derby County football club also expressed solidarity with the community. The Bishop of Repton, the Rt Rev Malcolm Macnaughton, said prayers had been offered for the injured and witnesses at Derby Cathedral and across the diocese.
