Derby Car Attack: Detectives Granted Extended Questioning Time for Suspect
Detectives have been granted additional time to question a 36-year-old man from Derby who was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a car ploughed into pedestrians outside a city centre pub, leaving seven people injured. The suspect, originally from India but now residing in Derby, remains in police custody following the incident that occurred on Saturday evening.
Details of the Incident
The serious collision took place at approximately 9:30pm on Saturday outside the Bishop Blaise pub on Friar Gate in Derby. According to police reports, a black Suzuki Swift mounted the pavement, striking multiple pedestrians who were gathered outside the establishment. The victims included four men and three women aged between 36 and 52 years old.
Derbyshire Police confirmed that three of the injured individuals have since been discharged from hospital, while the remaining victims continue to receive medical treatment. Authorities have described all injuries as serious but not life-threatening.
Police Investigation and Charges
The suspect was arrested just seven minutes after the incident occurred and faces multiple serious charges including attempted murder, causing serious injury through dangerous driving, inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, and dangerous driving. Officers have been granted until Tuesday evening to continue their questioning of the detained individual.
Chief Superintendent Emma Aldred stated: "I'd like to reiterate my well wishes to all the victims in this case as they begin their recovery supported by specialist officers. The response to this incident was a multi-agency one and we are continuing to work closely with partners and local businesses."
Counter-terrorism officers have assisted with the investigation, though police have emphasized that this support does not mean the incident is being treated as terrorism-related at this time.
Eyewitness Accounts and Community Response
Dharma Mundell, who works at a newsagent located just metres from where the collision occurred, described witnessing the terrifying moment. "This guy literally just sped up the road, straight on to the curb, straight through people," she told the Press Association. "I was in pure shock after hearing screaming and seeing a woman who was bleeding from her head being put on to a stretcher."
Local political leaders expressed their horror at the incident. Catherine Atkinson, MP for Derby North, praised the community response: "I was really proud to hear of so many members of the public, the staff of the different businesses along this street as well, who did come and try and support others." She suggested there should be a review of areas where crowds gather in Derby, potentially including the installation of protective bollards.
Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council, visited the scene on Monday and described being "absolutely horrified" by what had occurred. She announced that during the Easter bank holiday weekend, vehicles will be prohibited from driving along Friar Gate in the evenings while people are celebrating.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are continuing their extensive inquiries and have appealed to the public for any footage of the incident. Chief Superintendent Aldred confirmed that detectives are "continuing to question the arrested man and have been carrying out extensive inquiries over the last couple of days."
Baggy Shanker, MP for Derby South, emphasized the need for thorough investigation before drawing conclusions: "It's deeply shocking to learn that something like this could happen here at home. I really, really want to understand what has caused this before we jump to any conclusions."
The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the circumstances and motivations behind the serious incident that has shaken the Derby community.
